Coco Gauff was probably not among the favorites to win the US Open after a shocking first-round exit at the Wimbledon Championships. But the American took the loss as a lesson and gave tennis her everything, bagging two vital singles titles of her career. In the blink of an eye, she became the new favorite to end America’s US Open drought. Gauff’s victory overwhelmed the tennis community, and experts were busy predicting, praising, and analyzing her game.

After winning the title in her post-match interview, the American put a rest to her haters. It was so subtly done that Rafael Nadal‘s uncle praised the teenage star for her presence of mind. Gauff was one of Toni Nadal’s favorites at the French Open, but the American couldn’t make it to the finals. So, when the World No.3 won her first major, Rafa’s uncle took a stand for Gauff, dismissing the air surrounding whether Gauff deserves the US Open crown.

Rafa’s uncle comes to the defense of Coco Gauff and her talent

The teenager exceeded expectations by displaying impeccable mental and physical strength on and off the court. Gauff has always acknowledged the reality of her situation and conveyed her emotions without a veil. Is she a teenager who loves making TikTok videos? Yes. But is she also the one who displays emotional intelligence that goes beyond her age? Also, yes. Toni Nadal himself was impressed and approved of Gauff’s persona.

According to ‘The Tennis Letter’ on X, the Spanish coach said, ”I?m glad that through tenacity, work, & education, she was able to take away their reason. I don’t know her personally, but seeing her celebration full of emotion and, at the same time, far from the shrillness of today’s dramatic world, she seems to me to be a very sensible sportswoman.”

When Gauff was in her lowest form for a few days, critics worldwide thought the American was not ready to compete in majors. But the 19-year-old let her success speak for itself. She not only won her first major but also became the first teenager to win a major after over two decades since Serena Williams.

READ MORE:?EXCLUSIVE: US Open Champion Coco Gauff Refuses to Slow Down as Coach Narrates Her Big American Dream for 2024

Gauff politely answered the questions after claiming the title and ended the conversation by saying, “Thank you to the people who didn’t believe in me.” ? Taken aback by the weight of these words, The 62-year-old added his opinion to Gauff’s declaration. Nadal’s uncle highlighted what set the American sensation apart from other champions, especially her peers.

Toni Nadal reveals the most admirable quality in the teenage US Open star

In the press conference after the final, the Flushing Meadows champion admitted it was a huge pressure to be a favorite and reach the finals, but Gauff passed the test with flying colors. The former doubles No.1’s statements amused the Spanish coach as Gauff was candid about the nerves before the final and how she downplayed it.

The cherry on top is that the American star acknowledged her privilege to be able to do what she loves. Gauff revealed that she was aware of her fortune and never takes success for granted. Rafa’s uncle and coach appreciated the higher-order thinking of a teenager who is only 19 years old.

The Spanish coach concluded that the humble statements are a sign of common sense and a good perspective for a young champion with her whole career ahead.

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