"I'm friends with a lot of girls on tour, so it's quite the same thing": Gauff doesn't see playing Pegula as a big deal despite doubles partnership and here's why
WTASunday, 13 August 2023 at 03:30
Coco Gauff
mentioned that playing against Jessica Pegula is not a major difficulty despite
their closeness, as it's a common experience to compete against other friends
on the WTA tour.
The
American duo has become one of the most successful doubles teams in recent
years. Together, they have secured five titles since 2022, including three WTA
1000 events. A close relationship has always been evident between them.
Jessica
Pegula and Coco Gauff are also part of the exclusive top-10 club, representing
the leading American players in both singles and doubles. They consistently
perform well in tournaments, often reaching the latter stages.
In the
quarterfinals of the Canadian Open, Gauff and Pegula faced each other, with the
victory going to the world No. 3 after a closely contested three-set match that
ended 6-2, 5-7, 7-5.
The
friendship between them generated excitement among fans due to their closeness,
yet Gauff expressed that this aspect isn't as significant, as they frequently
compete against other close colleagues on the WTA tour.
“It doesn't
feel as much as people make it out to be. Jess & I have more of a public
friendship because we're playing doubles a lot, but I'm friends with a lot of
girls on tour, so it's quite the same thing,” she said.
“Obviously,
we're playing doubles, I guess our friendship is more of a big thing, but
you'll be surprised how often we play people that we're close to on tour,” Coco
Gauff added.
Read also
Gauff
acknowledged that playing against Pegula is always challenging, but she
emphasized that their friendship shouldn't be a factor to consider on the
court.
“Playing
her is difficult, but I don't think me being friends with her makes it more
difficult. I think that's just my mindset. I want to win regardless who is on
the other side of the court.”
Coco's next
challenge on the tour will be at the Cincinnati Open starting on Wednesday, as
she received a bye in the first round and awaits to know her opponent, who will
come from the winner between Egyptian Mayar Sherif and a qualifier.
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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