Coco Gauff’s preparation for her U.S. Open title defense has been anything but conventional, marked by dramatic coaching changes and serve struggles that have dominated headlines. The 21-year-old’s shocking decision to part ways with coach Matthew Daly just days before the tournament has raised questions about her readiness.
Gauff’s 2023 season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from the euphoric high of winning Roland Garros to the crushing disappointment of a first-round Wimbledon exit. Her defeat to teenage sensation Victoria Mboko in Montreal served as a wake-up call about the work still needed to maintain elite-level consistency.
The American’s serve remains her biggest technical challenge, with an alarming 42 double faults across just three matches in Canada. The low point came against Danielle Collins, where 23 double faults nearly cost her the match and highlighted the urgency of addressing this fundamental issue.
Despite these obstacles, Gauff’s natural talent and previous success at Flushing Meadows suggest she cannot be written off. The young champion’s ability to perform under pressure and adapt quickly could still make her a formidable competitor in the tournament she conquered just one year ago.