Coco Gauff spoke upon her arrival in Perth to compete at the United Cup, where she will look to defend the title she won back in 2025 alongside Taylor Fritz. It was the second time the United States claimed the trophy, although the previous title in 2023 was won with Jessica Pegula partnering Fritz.
Back in January, 2025, with Gauff leading the way, the Americans secured singles victories against Leylah Fernandez of Canada and Donna Vekic of Croatia during the round-robin stage. In the quarterfinals, Gauff defeated China’s Shuai Zhang, and later overcame Czech star Karolina Muchova in the semifinals, sending the United States into the final for the second time in just three editions of the tournament.
The current world No. 3 delivered a crucial victory over Iga Swiatek on finals day, setting the stage for Fritz to clinch the trophy for the U.S. after defeating Hubert Hurkacz in the second singles match. The 21-year-old also partnered Fritz in mixed doubles during the group stage, finishing her Australian stay with a perfect campaign.
This time around, Gauff arrived nearly a week early and will spend New Year’s Eve in Perth as she prepares on the practice courts to adapt to the conditions ahead of the Australian Open.
"I know we’re going to another beach... so, I guess, experiencing another beach is going to be pretty cool," the American told Nine Australia upon arriving at the tournament with her family. "I’m super excited to be here, and I’m looking forward to another United Cup."
Gauff targets strong Australian start
Gauff will once again team up with Fritz for the second consecutive year, this time aiming to defend the title. She arrived at Perth Airport ahead of her opening match, scheduled for January 3 against Argentina’s Solana Sierra. Asked whether she feels pressure defending the title, Gauff was clear. "No," she said. "I mean, it’s a team event, so I feel like the pressure is off and it’s more about the team."
The American is also eager to reunite with Fritz, with whom she forms the tournament’s top-ranked duo, boasting the best combined ranking: world No. 6 for Fritz and No. 3 for Gauff. They are also the only pair featuring two Top 10 players. "I’m looking forward to being on the team with (Fritz) again. He’s a pretty confident player and very, very sure of himself. It’s something I appreciate seeing and learning from as well."
The two-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged that last year’s campaign provided a significant confidence boost to start the season. "Last year I felt like it started off my season pretty strong, so looking forward to hopefully doing the same thing," the 21-year-old added. "But you never know what to expect at the start of the year. You’ve been practising for a few weeks straight and hopefully the things I’ve been working on translate over."
In the round-robin stage, the United States will play its first tie on January 3 against Argentina, with Fritz facing Sebastian Baez and Gauff taking on Sierra. If needed, the tie will be decided by mixed doubles, where Christian Harrison and Nicole Melichar-Martinez are ready to step in—although there could also be surprises, with Gauff and Fritz potentially teaming up again as they did in 2025.
The second group-stage tie will be against Spain, who arrive weakened by the absences of Carlos Alcaraz, Paula Badosa, and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Spain will be led by Jaume Munar (No. 36) and Jessica Bouzas Maneiro (No. 46). The winner of each group advances to the quarterfinals, along with the two best-placed runners-up based on ties won, sets, and games.
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.
mandoist31-10-2026 - Osaka's mental state apparently does not allow her to reach any more Quarter Finals? I mean, she doesn't really have the time for tennis with all the pre-planning that must go into her 12 year-old "fashion" goals.mandoist29-10-2026
- With her money one would think she could afford a better team of Psychiatrists?mandoist29-10-2026
- Boss move, Sinner !Rapunzel27-10-2026
- Apparently still refusing to seek 'help' ...and still playing Dress-Up like a 10 year-old.mandoist27-10-2026
- Lena... Takin' care of businessmandoist25-10-2026
- Can you please stop publishing this nonsense? Stick to Tennis.mandoist25-10-2026
- Does Sinner need that 4.5 mil? I doubt it. He can make that with three modelling gigs!😅🤣Rapunzel21-10-2026
- Did "People Magazine" purchase this website? This nonstop storyline is bullshit.mandoist21-10-2026
