The whole tennis community started reconsidering Coco Gauff‘s position as a top 3 player because of her recent disappointments. Although the last year came as a breakthrough moment for the young American, the ups and downs of competition tested her levels, and therefore her weaknesses came to light. While the 20-year-old is finally picking her pace up again at the US Open 2024, tennis legend Serena Williams decoded the only aspect that she needs to focus on.

Coco Gauff’s performance at the ongoing event has been commendable. Despite the previous disappointments, the defending champion made it clear that she was focused on one big goal and the moment is here. While her role model and tennis great Serena Williams graced the Flushing Meadows arena with her presence today, it was hard for her to not open up about the young champ’s efforts.

In a conversation with Mary Joe, the 23-time grand slam champion made it clear that she thinks Gauff has a strong forehand. While every technical aspect of the 20-year-old is on track, according to Serena, it was the psychological side that she had to point out.

The setbacks marked in Paris and Cincinnati made everyone believe that Gauff might have taken a hit on her morale. While defeats are not that easy to digest for a player who experiences a rapid rise, Serena’s concern lies around the 20-year-old’s confidence, which she apparently lacked in her previous campaigns. Gauff is currently in a showdown against Emma Navarro in an all-American showdown at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. While the tussle is for a place in the quarter-finals, all eyes are on the young champ, to see if she can move ahead on her campaign to earn greatness.

“Gonna comeback” Emma Navarro sees off Coco Gauff with an optimistic message

Coco Gauff’s defeat at the US Open 2024 was nothing less than a Christopher Nolan movie’s ending. While fans were expecting a lot from her title defense campaign, the young champ couldn’t keep up with the levels and therefore faced a three-set defeat against her compatriot Emma Navarro. Even after winning the match, Navarro couldn’t stop herself from being optimistic about Gauff’s bright potential.

“It’s pretty insane. I lost first round the last two years. Now to be in the quarterfinals is insane. It’s the city I was born in. It feels so special to play here. Coco is an amazing player. I have a ton of respect for her. I know she’s gonna come back and win this thing again,” the 23-year-old said. As Navarro continues to move ahead on her journey, it is time for Gauff to focus on her weaknesses and work on them as a big part of the season is still ahead of her.