Former world number one Jimmy Connors believes America’s young tennis star Coco Gauff is on the right track.
The 19-year-old is starting the ongoing US Open 2023 as one of the favourites as she is seeded sixth.
Connors was quoted in a report recently where he expressed optimism that the next step in Gauff’s journey is to lift a Grand Slam.
"Well I mean you got to go step-by-step," said the 70-year-old. "You know, win a 250 then you want to win a 500, then you win a 1000, but then you need to win a Grand Slam, the Grand Slam set you apart and in a different category.
"So you know the steps that Coco Gauff's taking and Jessica Pegula that they're taking. They're on the right track, you know, but the next step is winning a Grand Slam."
"Yeah, you know you you've got to be out there. The only thing better than playing and winning is playing and losing because at least you're in the game."
Gauff is entering the competition with high confidence after recently winning the Cincinnati Open (Western & Southern Open) where she lifted the title after defeating Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova in the final in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-4.
The Atalanta-born is set to face Germany’s Laura Siegemund in the first round of the fourth and final Grand Slam.
"Being here tonight is an honor. The WTA history that we all celebrate is about a tour founded by women who were unafraid and carried on by women who are empowered by the legacy that we work every day to build upon." @CocoGauff inspiring the room at the #WTA50 Anniversary Gala…
