Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old American tennis sensation, has been a prominent figure on the WTA Tour, showcasing remarkable talent and athleticism. Despite her impressive achievements, including a US Open title in 2023 and a WTA Finals victory in 2024, Gauff’s quest to attain the world No. 1 ranking has been met with challenges. Renowned tennis coach Rick Macci, who has mentored legends like Serena and Venus Williams, has identified two critical areas in Gauff’s game that require enhancement: her serve and forehand.
Macci has been vocal about Gauff’s potential and the adjustments needed to elevate her performance. He emphasizes that with proper modifications, Gauff’s serve could become a formidable weapon, potentially reaching speeds of 130 mph. He also highlights her exceptional speed and athleticism, suggesting that refining her serve and forehand could pave the way for her to become the world No. 1.
Gauff’s serve, particularly her second serve, has been a focal point of critique. In a match at the Wuhan Open, she recorded 21 double faults, the highest by any WTA player in a main draw match that year. Macci believes that the issue is biomechanical and asserts that it can be corrected swiftly with the right approach. He stresses the importance of addressing this flaw urgently to prevent it from hindering her progress.
In response to these challenges, Gauff has taken proactive steps to improve her game. She recently appointed Matt Daly as her new coach, following her split with Brad Gilbert after a 14-month partnership. Daly, who previously coached ATP player Denis Shapovalov, is expected to focus on enhancing Gauff’s serve and forehand. Gauff expressed her enthusiasm about the new coaching arrangement, stating that she is eager to make adjustments to have a better season next year.
Despite the areas needing improvement, Gauff has demonstrated resilience and determination. She began the 2025 season with a strong performance at the United Cup, winning all her singles matches in straight sets and leading the United States to victory. Her triumphs included a notable win over Iga Swiatek, which she described as a confidence booster. Gauff acknowledged that she now believes she is one of the best players in the world, reflecting a growing self-assurance in her abilities.
However, Gauff’s journey has not been without setbacks. At the Australian Open, her retooled forehand and serve faltered during the quarterfinals, leading to a loss to Paula Badosa. This defeat ended her 13-match winning streak and underscored the need for further refinement in her game. Gauff candidly admitted that while she has made improvements, there is still work to be done to reach her desired level of performance.
The pressure and expectations that come with being a rising star in tennis are significant. Macci advises that how a player frames these pressures in their mind can make a substantial difference. He suggests that viewing pressure as an opportunity can propel a player to another level, turning it into a best friend rather than a nightmare. This mental approach is crucial for Gauff as she navigates the challenges of professional tennis.
Gauff’s commitment to improvement is evident in her training regimen. She has been open about the struggles she faces during intense workouts, humorously comparing her temptation to quit to a car parked precariously close to a wall. Despite these challenges, she maintains a determined attitude, emphasizing that quitting is not an option. This resilience is a testament to her dedication to reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
As Gauff continues to refine her serve and forehand under the guidance of her new coaching team, the tennis world watches with anticipation. Her combination of athleticism, speed, and a growing mental fortitude positions her as a formidable contender for the world No. 1 spot. With targeted improvements and a resilient mindset, Gauff has the potential to ascend to the top of the rankings and leave an indelible mark on the sport.
In conclusion, while Coco Gauff has already achieved remarkable success at a young age, the insights from esteemed coach Rick Macci highlight specific areas for enhancement that could propel her to the world No. 1 ranking. By focusing on improving her serve and forehand, and maintaining a positive mental approach to pressure, Gauff is well-positioned to continue her ascent in the tennis world. Her proactive steps, including the appointment of a new coach and her dedication to rigorous training, underscore her commitment to reaching the pinnacle of the sport. The journey ahead is challenging, but with her talent and determination, Gauff’s potential is boundless.
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