After losing the US Open title defense, Gauff and her coach parted ways
Coco Gauff, the American tennis sensation who clinched the US Open title last year, faced disappointment this time around as she failed to defend her championship. On September 18, she took to social media to announce her split from coach Brad Gilbert after 14 months of collaboration.
Despite starting the year strong with a victory at the Auckland Open, Gauff couldn’t replicate her flawless summer from the previous year. She was eliminated in the round of 16 at Wimbledon and, at the Paris Olympics, failed to reach the podium in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Her struggles continued through the tournaments in Toronto, Cincinnati, and the US Open, where she faced an unexpected first-round exit in Cincinnati. Consequently, her world ranking has slipped from No. 3 at the beginning of the year to No. 6 now.
In her heartfelt message on social media, the 20-year-old expressed gratitude to Gilbert, stating, “We had an incredible journey together. I wish you all the best in the future.”
Last year, Gauff achieved remarkable wins in Washington, Cincinnati, and the US Open, becoming the first teenager since Serena Williams in 1999 to win the US Open title. Gilbert also took to social media to thank Gauff and the whole team, reflecting on the “incredible summer” they had together in 2023, as well as the dedication they showed throughout their 14 months as a team.
“At just 20 years old, Gauff, your future is incredibly bright. I wish you continued success and I’m excited for the next chapter in my coaching career,” Gilbert wrote.
