Coco Gauff made a significant impact in the 2024 WTA season, particularly during the Asian Swing. Her performance at the China Open was a highlight, where she triumphed over Karolina Muchova with a decisive score of 6-1, 6-3. This victory was especially sweet after a challenging period marked by early tournament exits, including a disappointing fourth-round finish at the US Open against Emma Navarro. Gauff’s comeback culminated in her winning the WTA Finals, silencing critics, and reigniting hopes for her future success at Grand Slam events.

In a recent episode of The AO Show Weekly, tennis analysts Simon Rea and Levi Huddleston discussed the prospects for the upcoming Australian Open. They focused on Gauff and Navarro, both of whom had impressive seasons. Navarro recently defeated Jessica Pegula at the Garden Cup in New York, showcasing her potential. However, Huddleston pointed out that Navarro needs to build her confidence to compete at the highest level. He emphasized that she must elevate her game to challenge established players like Gauff.

Gauff’s self-belief has been a defining trait this season. Rea noted, “I absolutely think that Coco Gauff, even if she serves 19 double faults in a match, she still thinks that she can win the match.” This mindset was evident during her successful run in Beijing and at the WTA Finals, where she defeated top players like Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka. The former WTA player Coco Vandeweghe echoed this sentiment, stating that Gauff’s newfound confidence has been crucial to her victories.

While acknowledging Navarro’s talent, Vandeweghe expressed doubts about her self-belief heading into major tournaments. She stated that Navarro does not yet seem “convinced in herself that she can win” the Australian Open title. Nevertheless, both players have shown promise for the future, making them exciting contenders as they prepare for 2025.

With Gauff’s eye set on making a bigger comeback in the next season. Many analysts have applauded her resilience on the court. Even renowned journalist Jonathan Overend recently provided valuable insight into Coco Gauff’s ability to handle criticism.

Overend praises Gauff’s ability to take feedback and put it into action

On December 2nd, during the Sky Sports Tennis podcast, journalist Jonathan Overend reflected on Coco Gauff‘s recent challenges. He noted, “A period of relative disappointment. The world has started picking apart her game, telling her what she’s doing wrong.” Throughout her season, critics suggested adjustments to her grip and technique. However, Gauff quickly silenced the doubters. After a disappointing early exit from the US Open against Emma Navarro, she made the necessary changes and bounced back to win the China Open. For this, Overend praised her resilience, stating, “It’s just the resilience of this player is so great at such a young age.”

Gauff’s impressive turnaround can be attributed to her partnership with coach Matt Daly. Under his guidance, she effectively implemented strategies that proved crucial during high-stakes matches. Overend highlighted that Gauff is still only 20 years old and has already made three consecutive appearances at the WTA Finals as the youngest player. With nine career titles, including a Grand Slam victory at the 2023 US Open, she currently ranks No. 3 in the WTA standings. Overend remarked on her potential for further growth, saying, “The potential she still has with those improvements she knows that she can make.”

Now, Gauff is eager to carry her momentum into the 2025 season. She has already begun preseason training and is ready to bring the heat. As she had said after winning the WTA Finals: “I’m the author of my own story and I’m not going to let anybody write me off.” What’s your take on Gauff potentially clinching her first Australian Open Grand Slam in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!