American tennis star Gauff splits with coach Gilbert

American tennis star Coco Gauff has ended her coaching partnership with Brad Gilbert just two weeks after a “disappointing” defense of her US Open title.

Gauff, now 20, won her first Grand Slam in New York last year with Gilbert’s guidance. However, her title defense ended in the fourth round this year, where she lost to fellow American Emma Navarro.

Gilbert took to X (formerly Twitter) to praise Gauff: “Coco, at just 20 years young, your future is incredibly bright, and I wish you nothing but continued success ahead. I’m excited for the next chapter in my coaching career.”

Gauff had initially hired Gilbert to work alongside Spanish coach Pere Riba after her early exit from Wimbledon in 2022. The duo helped orchestrate a remarkable comeback, with Gauff winning 18 of her next 19 matches, claiming titles in Washington, Cincinnati, and ultimately the US Open, where she defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final.

Riba left Gauff’s team in November 2023, leaving Gilbert as the sole head coach. However, this year Gauff has not reached a final since winning the Auckland title in January. Despite strong performances at the Australian and French Opens, she was knocked out in the fourth round at both Wimbledon and the US Open.

Questions about Gauff’s serve and forehand, particularly after hitting 19 double faults against Navarro, sparked speculation about her coaching future.

Gilbert expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thanks to Coco and the entire team for an absolutely amazing summer run in 2023 and for 14 months of incredible team effort.”

As Gauff looks ahead, her next coaching decision could be pivotal for her continued success on the tour.

Reported By BBC Sports.