Pakistan, Oct. 3 -- Defending champion Coco Gauff beat Eva Lys in straight sets to reach her third consecutive China Open semi-final.

The world number three took one hour and 28 minutes to overcome her German opponent 6-3 6-4.

The American, a two-time Grand Slam winner, broke Lys three times in the opening set, converting three of her four break point opportunities.

"I'm happy with how I played - she's a tough opponent and she hit some incredible shots on the run but I tried my best to play aggressive and good tennis," said Gauff.

"I think staying confident in my game [was important]. Not being too passive when I had the lead, I played one passive point in the last game but after that I played good tennis."

Gauff, who has struggled w...