"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.

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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.

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