Serena Williams’ Ex-Coach Labels Coco Gauff Australian Open Favorite: ‘Putting in Work’
Coco Gauff, the young tennis sensation from the United States, has garnered immense attention and praise following her recent performances on the WTA Tour. Among her most notable admirers is Patrick Mouratoglou, Serena Williams’ former coach, who has boldly labeled Gauff as the favorite to win the 2024 Australian Open. Mouratoglou, a widely respected figure in the tennis world, credits Gauff’s relentless work ethic and significant improvements to her game as the foundation for this prediction.
At just 19 years old, Gauff has already achieved what many seasoned players only dream of. Her meteoric rise in 2023, capped off by her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open, solidified her status as one of the brightest stars in women’s tennis. Mouratoglou, who played a crucial role in guiding Serena Williams to multiple Grand Slam victories, sees similarities between the two players—not just in their athletic ability but in their mental fortitude and dedication to improving their craft.
Speaking about Gauff’s potential, Mouratoglou emphasized how the teenager’s recent transformation, both on and off the court, makes her a strong contender for the Australian Open title. He remarked, “Coco has been putting in the work, and it’s paying off. Her game has evolved so much over the past year, and she’s showing maturity beyond her years. Winning the US Open has given her the belief that she can compete with the best, and that makes her incredibly dangerous heading into Melbourne.”
Gauff’s US Open triumph was a defining moment in her career. She showcased remarkable resilience and determination, especially in the final, where she overcame Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets. The victory was more than just a testament to her talent; it was a statement that she belongs among the elite in women’s tennis. Following her win, Gauff has continued to impress on the tour, maintaining her consistency and proving that her success is no flash in the pan.
Mouratoglou pointed to Gauff’s partnership with Brad Gilbert as a key factor in her recent success. Gilbert, a former top player and renowned coach, joined Gauff’s team mid-season and has been instrumental in refining her strategy and decision-making. Under Gilbert’s guidance, Gauff has developed a more aggressive playing style, combining her powerful groundstrokes with a willingness to step forward and dictate points. This evolution has made her a more well-rounded player, capable of competing against the varied styles on the WTA Tour.
While Mouratoglou’s confidence in Gauff is high, he also acknowledged the challenges that come with being labeled a favorite. The pressure to perform at such a young age can be overwhelming, particularly when the spotlight is as bright as it is for Gauff. However, Mouratoglou believes that Gauff’s maturity and grounded personality will help her handle the expectations. “Coco has a great team around her, and she’s very level-headed. She understands what it takes to succeed, and she’s willing to put in the effort. That’s what separates her from others at her age,” he said.
Gauff’s preparation for the Australian Open has reportedly been meticulous. She has been focusing on fine-tuning her serve, improving her movement on the hard courts, and working on her mental game to handle the pressure of being a top contender. Her ability to adapt to different conditions and opponents has been one of her greatest strengths, and it will undoubtedly be a key factor in Melbourne.
The Australian Open will be Gauff’s first Grand Slam appearance since her US Open victory, and all eyes will be on her to see if she can replicate her success Down Under. The tournament, which kicks off the Grand Slam calendar, has historically been a platform for breakout performances, and Gauff will be looking to cement her status as one of the sport’s new dominant forces.
Mouratoglou’s endorsement of Gauff as the favorite for the Australian Open has also sparked discussions about her position in the broader context of women’s tennis. The WTA has been undergoing a period of transition, with established stars like Serena Williams and Ashleigh Barty stepping away from the sport, creating opportunities for younger players to step into the spotlight. Players like Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina have emerged as top contenders, but Gauff’s blend of talent, charisma, and determination makes her a unique figure in this new era.
Mouratoglou drew parallels between Gauff and Serena Williams, noting how both players possess a rare combination of athleticism, power, and mental toughness. While he stopped short of directly comparing their careers, he expressed confidence in Gauff’s potential to become one of the all-time greats. “Serena was one of a kind, but Coco has the tools to carve her own path to greatness. She’s still so young, and she’s only going to get better with time,” Mouratoglou said.
As Gauff prepares to embark on what could be another landmark season, the expectations surrounding her are higher than ever. The Australian Open represents not just an opportunity to add another Grand Slam to her resume but also a chance to solidify her position as the face of the next generation of women’s tennis. With the backing of legends like Mouratoglou and the support of a strong team, Gauff appears more than ready to embrace the challenge.
Her journey so far has been nothing short of extraordinary, and if Mouratoglou’s prediction holds true, the 2024 Australian Open could be the stage where Coco Gauff truly establishes herself as the dominant force in women’s tennis. For now, she remains focused on the task at hand, continuing to put in the work that has already brought her so much success. As the tennis world watches with anticipation, one thing is certain: Coco Gauff’s star is only just beginning to shine.