‘Now I Get It’- Moments After Sealing Final Spot in Washington, Coco Gauff Reveals Major Men’s Tennis Realization as ‘Hate’ Makes Way for Understanding

Coco Gauff continues to shine at the Washington Open as she cruises past Liudmila Samsonova 6-3, 6-3 to book a spot in the final. In the meantime, there have been talks about the 19-year-old making certain tweaks to her game. After making significant changes to her coaching team, she has begun to unlock a new version of herself. However, today Gauff showed us something different – something which is usually only seen in men’s tennis.

Big serves and engagement in passive rallies define Coco Gauff’s game. But critics have often found that her groundstrokes lack power. However, this week, she has shown that she is far from one-dimensional. The World No.7 showed aggression in many baseline exchanges. But today, it was her return position that was a massive eye-opener for tennis pundits and fans alike.

Coco Gauff takes a page out of the men’s tennis handbook

During the match, Gauff came up with a completely different returning position than her usual. The American was standing several feet behind the baseline. Backcourt players like Daniil Medvedev and Rafael Nadal in men’s tennis do the same to avoid getting aced. However, it also has its flaws that make the returner vulnerable to serve-and-volley tactics. But by and large, many players seem to benefit from it.

After her victory, Gauff was asked about the new return position in her on-court interview. She replied saying, “The returning was really vital today. She (Samsonova) probably has the best second serves on tour. Never seen someone get triple digits consistently on their second, as many times as she did. You guys saw me. I was returning on the D.C. sign. I absolutely hate that. When the men play, I’m like ‘why do they have to stand back there?’ But now I get it.”

The tactic worked out really well for Gauff, as she ended up winning 35 out of the 77 return points, which is slightly over 45%. Those are remarkable numbers, especially against one of the best servers in the world on a fast hard court. For comparison, consider Samsonova’s previous opponents Marta Kostyuk and Sorana Cirstea, who could only win 35% and 23% of the returning points, respectively.

These statistics reflect some really positive signs for Gauff. While registering these return numbers, she also did not drop her serve even once in the semi-final. One could make a case that Gauff is playing some of her best tennis, right before the much-anticipated US Open.

READ MORE: ‘I Have My Certification’- American Star Coco Gauff Puts Out Her Medical Credentials After the Occurrence of an Unfortunate Circumstance During Her Quarterfinal Clash in Washington

Do you think Gauff can carry this form through the hardcourt season into the US Open and surprise the fans? Let us know in the comments.

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