Former coach of Serena Williams, Rick Macci believes Gauff has tools to win US Open under one condition
WTA
Former
Serena Williams' coach, Rick Macci, expressed his opinion that Coco Gauff has
the potential to win the US Open.
Rick Macci
is one of the most renowned tennis coaches, having coached five players who
reached the number one ranking in the world, including Andy Roddick in the ATP
and the Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, Maria Sharapova, and Jennifer
Capriati in the WTA. Their achievements together led him to win the USPTA
National Coach of the Year award seven times.
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Currently
working as a commentator, the American coach spoke about the young star Coco
Gauff, who, along with Jessica Pegula, is considered one of the top contenders
for the United States in this year's US Open.
"Coco
Gauff at age 19 has supersonic make up speed, a wicked slice serve, a laser
down line backhand with juice nice soft crispy volleys, a feathery drop shot
and most of all a quickly maturing mind and if she can stay authoritative on
the forehand she has enough to win the US OPEN," Macci wrote.
The young
tennis player recently admitted that her father is in talks with Macci
regarding the possibility of the coach assisting her in working on technical
aspects after the end of the season.
"I
haven't spoken to Rick personally. But, yes, him and my dad converse a lot. Not
just now but over the years. Yeah, that was one of the options to do that after
the season is over," Gauff said.
"Obviously
it's far from now, so I can't really confirm. But, yeah, I believe, based off
what you told me, everything is true," she added.
Gauff has
started the North American hardcourt tournaments in great form, securing
victories over Haley Baptiste, Belinda Bencic, and Ludmila Samsonova to reach
the final of the WTA 500 Mubadala Citi DC Open. In the final, she will face the
8th seed Maria Sakkari, who defeated the local Jessica Pegula in the first
semifinal and is seeking the second title of her career.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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