Stephens defeats Gauff at US Open and backs Murray in toilet breaks dispute

• Stephens beats 21st seed 6-4, 6-2 to reach third round
• 2017 champion supports Murray's criticism of Tsitsipas

Four years ago, Sloane Stephens made a stunning run to the US Open title as the world's 83rd-ranked player. If the 28-year-old American keeps playing like she did on Wednesday night, there's no reason that improbable history couldn't repeat itself in the week or so ahead.

Amid the steady din of violent rains from the remnants of Hurricane Ida that hammered the roof above Arthur Ashe Stadium, Stephens relied on a dialled-in serve, weapons-grade forehand and veteran sangfroid throughout a professional 6-4, 6-2 win over 21st-seeded Coco Gauff in an all-American second-round blockbuster.