Navatilova backs Gauff to emerge as World Number One

Martina Navratilova backs Coco Gauff to become world number one in doubles and singles as she once did but was not sure when it might happen.

Half of her predictions already happened as Gauff became doubles number one in August of 2022. She improved in singles as well reaching number four in October but eventually ended the year as number 7. Her goal was always to be number one and Navratilova has no doubt that she'll do it one day but it looks very hard right now with the way Swiatek has dominated the sport:

"Her serve has gotten better. Getting to the finals of the French, I think she has the best game for all surfaces. So with her, just get some clarity on that forehand and she’s home free. She could make another jump. I’d put more money on her to one day take over the No.1 spot than anyone else."

Navratilova made the predictions as part of her 2023 prediction for the WTA but she didn't want to put a date on Gauff's achievement. She might do it this year but it would take a lot of effort, an epic year like Swiatek had last year.