Australian Open 2024: Coco Gauff Credits Roddick's Advice

Coco Gauff has shared insights into her private training sessions with former US Open champion Andy Roddick, aiming to enhance her serve as she pursues consecutive major titles.

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The 19-year-old, who secured victory at the Auckland Open for the second consecutive year as part of her preparation for the first Grand Slam of the year, has commenced the tournament with three straight-sets wins against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova, Caroline Dolehide, and Alycia Parks. Entering the competition as a Grand Slam champion, Gauff, who clinched the US Open last year for her maiden major title, is off to a strong start in Melbourne and could be on her way to a second title.

“Defending any title is really tough, especially at the start of the year; you want to start off well,” she said in the Eurosport Cube, reflecting on her victory in New Zealand. “I did well in Auckland coming in as the No. 1 seed. I felt a little bit of pressure, but in the final, I was probably most proud of that match because Elina [Svitolina] was a great opponent, and I think that match toughness helped me in this tournament.”

Not only has her match toughness improved, but her service game has also seen enhancement, thanks to the guidance of Andy Roddick, the 2003 men’s US Open winner.

Gauff delivered the fastest serve of the tournament on Friday at 199kph and explained to Eurosport the adjustments she made and the measures she has taken to enhance her serve.

“I just adjusted the way that I tossed the ball up a little bit, which allowed my toss to be more consistent,” Gauff said. “Then I just felt that the more consistent my serve is, the more I’m okay with going for it in those big moments.”

“I still know I can improve on it, but I’m really happy with the progress that I’ve made in the short amount of time. He [Roddick] is one of the best servers ever, so when he offered the advice, I flew to his home, and we made some magic. It was only two days there, but I think it was the most meaningful two days of practice that I’ve ever had. The way I was able to adjust it so quickly and for it to work right away was pretty seamless, so I really credit him and thank him for taking the time to do that.”

Armed with an upgraded serve, fourth seed Gauff aspires to replicate her success in Melbourne, akin to her triumph in New York last September. Despite not showcasing her best tennis, the American expresses increased confidence for the Australian Open, drawing inspiration from her experience at her home slam.

“In the first round, I was a bit nervous, but in the last two matches, I felt no nerves at all,” Gauff remarked. “It provides a lot of confidence because I believe the peak of my tennis last year was during the DC 500 tournament.”

“I didn’t even feel like I played my best during the US Open, and it’s really those matches that you win when you’re not playing your best that gives you that confidence. Going into this tournament, I know I can do it.”