"It wasn't my decision": Coco Gauff and ex-coach Pere Riba address sudden split

Pere Riba, former coach of Coco Gauff, spoke about their recent separation during the WTA Finals.

The Spanish coach started working with Gauff just before the grass-court season, and in a matter of weeks, they achieved great success, as Gauff made the expected leap in quality, securing three titles in the hardcourt swing, including the US Open, and rising to World No. 3.

In addition to Pere Riba, the American player added Brad Gilbert to her coaching team after Wimbledon, and they both accompanied her to titles in Washington, Cincinnati, and Flushing Meadows.

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After news of their recent separation came out, the coach explained the reasons behind it, citing "personal family issues," as he told Marca.

"I am very happy with the work we have done together because all the objectives were met, and I am convinced that next year Gauff will be No. 1," Riba said.

Gauff also addressed the matter, clarifying that the decision was not personal on her part and expressing gratitude for the time she worked with Riba, crediting him with helping her secure three titles:

“Unfortunately it wasn't my decision, but we had to end the partnership. I had a great time with him and I wish him the best in this next chapter,” Gauff said of her split with Riba.

“If it was up to me, I would've loved to have him here. But things happen, life happens. No bad terms on our end. Sometimes people think it's bigger than what it is. Some things just didn't work out. That's all. I still think he's a great guy. He did some amazing things for me personally and also for my game. I'm sure he's gonna be successful in his next step.”

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Gauff is currently focused on the WTA Finals, where she has already secured her first victory by crushing Tunisian player Ons Jabeur (6th) with a score of 6-0, 6-1 in her opening match. She now faces a tough challenge against the World No. 2, Iga Swiatek, who still has a chance to regain the No. 1 ranking but must win all her matches in the Finals.

So far, their head-to-head record is 8-1 in favor of the Polish player, with their most recent encounter occurring less than a month ago in the semifinals of the China Open, which Swiatek won 6-2, 6-3.

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