Tennis legend John McEnroe has forecasted potential changes in Coco Gauff’s team following her unexpected loss in the fourth round of the 2024 US Open. Gauff, who was the defending champion, aimed to become the first woman since Serena Williams to retain her title at Flushing Meadows but was defeated by her Olympic teammate Emma Navarro in a tough three-set match, 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.
Reflecting on the disappointing result, Gauff acknowledged her summer wasn’t ideal but kept a positive outlook, saying, “I feel like there’s 70 other players in the draw that would love to have the summer that I had even though it’s my least probably done well during this time of the year… I know I can turn it around.”
McEnroe, however, suggested there might be upcoming changes to her team, which includes her high-profile coach, Brad Gilbert. “I suspect there will be changes, that’s my guess,” McEnroe said at a Eurosport event. He also highlighted some of Gauff’s ongoing struggles with her serve and forehand, observing, “She seems to be more outwardly frustrated on the court… I guess that’s just the pressure of expectations.”
The tennis icon also noted that Gauff’s heavy presence in commercials might have impacted her preparations, urging balance between her commitments and her performance on the court. Despite the pressure, McEnroe expressed confidence in her ability to overcome these challenges: “You can tell she’s not feeling that right now, but she will bounce back.”
The 20-year-old tennis star, one of the most recognizable faces in American sports, has faced significant scrutiny. However, with her immense talent and drive, many, including McEnroe, believe she will regain her top form soon.
Coco Gauff in 2024
Ranked world no.6, Coco played her last match on the 1st of September when she lost to world no.8 Emma Navarro 6-3 4-6 6-3 in the 4th round of the U.S. Open (draw).
At the moment, during this season Coco achieved a compiled 41-15 win-loss record. Gauff has won 1 title in Auckland.
Coco Gauff will take on the world no.224 Sinja Kraus in the . They have never played each other until now in top tournaments.
Gauff conquered 1 title in 2024 in Auckland.
Coco won 7 titles in her career: 5 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts and 1 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
Coco Gauff |
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