Coco Gauff has surely turned the tide of opinion with her recent performance. However, many in the tennis community believe it’s connected to a key decision she made before the tournament. Gauff parted ways with her former coach Brad Gilbert after her exit from the US Open. While this decision was met with some criticism, former pro-Alexandra Stevenson explored how it helped Gauff regain her form following her Grand Slam setback.

Stevenson had an interesting take on Coco Gauff’s 2024 China Open win. After the American’s Round of 16 exit at the US Open against Emma Navarro, Gauff split with Brad Gilbert. She made 20 unforced errors during that match, which raised questions about her potential. Despite this, Gauff issued a statement about the amicable separation. Some supporters speculated that her failure to defend her title was the main reason for the decision. Now that Gauff has won the 2024 China Open, the tennis community views her decision as both correct and strategic. Stevenson, a former American player, shared some insightful thoughts on the matter.

“She decided to part ways with Brad. Now she feels better and wins a tournament,” said Stevenson during a podcast with Hughes Laverdiere. She added that this might not be entirely true, as Gilbert had certainly helped improve Gauff’s game. Stevenson also mentioned Gauff’s new grip coach and how difficult it is to adjust a grip within days. However, she still believed that the WTA number six experienced a sense of liberation that contributed to her recent success. “Whatever happened she felt more free and she had a little breakthrough. A tournament win is the nice breakthrough for her to go into the championships as well,” she said.

On the other hand, Gauff expressed optimism after winning the title in Beijing. The WTA star felt her recent form was leading her towards continued success.

Coco Gauff believes she is moving in the “right direction”

After her 2024 China Open win, Gauff headed to Wuhan for another tournament. Speaking with WTA Insider, Gauff radiated positivity. “Everybody can do everything in practice, This time, when the pressure is on the line, I was just trying to force myself to do things I was uncomfortable with. So yeah, I think the result is now reassurance that I am in the right direction,” she said. Her statement hinted that parting ways with her former coach might have been the right decision for her career.

“A lot of times people forget that I’m still in the developmental phase of my career and nothing is going to be great, Most of the people doing well are 25 and older in the top 10, maybe with the exception of Iga [Swiatek]. We have a long way to go and I still have a lot that I need to work on and I’m proud of myself thus far,” Gauff concluded.

Coco Gauff’s recent China Open win speaks volumes about her resilience and spirit. Amidst criticism of her form, she made a bold decision by separating from Gilbert. Though many questioned her strategy, her victory proved she was a player of great promise. Now in Wuhan, the focus is on whether Gauff can claim another title.