Former coach to Coco Gauff, Pere Riba, recently shared insights into his brief yet impactful collaboration with the American tennis sensation and his subsequent reunion with Zheng Qinwen’s coaching team. Reflecting on his experiences, Riba offered poignant insights into his coaching journey.
“Everything was perfect; I enjoyed it a lot. Good results; good improvement. I only can positive things,” Riba expressed, underlining the success and positive developments during his tenure with Gauff. Despite their fruitful partnership, he disclosed on the Functional Tennis Podcast that family obligations influenced his decision to part ways. “I had to be here… my family needed me. I felt that I had to be here,” Riba elaborated, shedding light on the personal reasons behind his departure from Gauff’s team.
Amid his hiatus, Riba emphasized his readiness to resume coaching, announcing his renewed collaboration with Zheng Qinwen, citing the opportunity to balance professional commitments and family priorities. “I’m gonna be back. At least I am happy because now I can fix the things and spend time with my family. And let’s see what is next. You know, no rush,” Riba remarked, hinting at his eagerness for future coaching endeavors while cherishing the chance to address personal matters.
The coach’s return to Zheng Qinwen’s team follows a brief stint for Qinwen with Wim Fisette, former coach to Naomi Osaka. Addressing the transitions in coaching, Riba’s words echo a dedication to both professional growth and personal responsibilities, underscoring the intricate balance within the dynamic realm of professional tennis.
Coco Gauff in 2023
WWLWWLWWWW At the moment ranked no.3 (career-high), the American played her last match on the 4th of November when she lost to world no.5 Jessica Pegula 6-2 6-1 in the semifinal in Cancun (draw).
At the moment, during this season Gauff achieved an overall 51-16 win-loss record. Gauff clinched 4 titles in 2023 in Auckland, Washington, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
