"I think sometimes I play a little bit more passive": Gauff looks to change mindset after disappointing Miami exit

The 19-year-old tennis player suffered a painful defeat after winning the first set and being ahead 5-3 in the second. However, Potapova did not give up any points and managed to turn the game around, winning the second set 7-5. In the third set, Gauff's morale dropped, which the Russian took advantage of to take control of the game, defeating the American 6-2 in the third set. World number 6 spoke about it:

“I think that's kind of been where I've been messing up in all my matches this year. All the ones I've lost I think I lost because of that. I think [my defense] should be more used as a tool in a toolbox than as a weapon”, said Gauff.

Former French Open finalist reflected on what needs to change in her game, responding that the main factor has to do with her mentality when approaching matches

“I think I have to change my mentality in the game about not relying on that too much because I think sometimes I play a little bit too passive because I know I can get to balls. All the players that are doing well now on tour are big hitters. It's not like I don't have the tools to hit big, because I definitely do, I think it's just more so making that the first decision”, added the American.

“I think I improved throughout the season. Obviously today was a bit of a letdown for me, but I feel like the decisions I'm making on the court are better than the decisions I was making last year. I feel like now I'm not executing at all, frankly. I think I need to work on the execution part because I am executing them in practice, certain moments in practice. It's about transferring that into the match. I think I need to figure out what three things I want to focus on in the match, then maybe go to those points”, closed Gauff.