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Coco Gauff is a name that has sending shockwaves in the tennis world at the moment. After consecutive title wins at the Citi Open and the Cincinnati Masters, she has made her way into the semi-finals of the US Open as well. While the world expects the dominant force to shine, there was a moment in the round of 16 that put her under some scrutiny.

The match saw Gauff’s fierce nature as she turned her back against the coaching advice given by her coach, Brad Gilbert. However, speaking about the instance, Serena Williams‘ former coach, Rick Macci, has come ahead in support of the 19-year-old citing what she did at the moment was right.

Serena Williams’ former coach takes a stand in support of Coco Gauff

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Coco Gauff had a sticky moment in the US Open when, during her crucial match against Caroline Wozniacki. She boldly told her coach Brad Gilbert to ‘Please just stop!‘ after hearing his advice. This fearless act earned Gauff praise from Rick Macci, who had coached Serena Williams in the past.

Macci applauded Gauff’s strong self-belief, emphasizing that in tennis, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. He said, ‘There’s not a wrong way or a right way. There’s a better way and Coco had a better way. She has the backbone and she is the one pulling the trigger, taking the temperature so I thought it was great but that just goes to show you how she’s wired and it worked out pretty good.”

He commended her for being in control, making critical decisions, and keeping her composure during the intense moment. By supporting Coco Gauff’s assertiveness on the court, Macci highlighted the significance of confidence in professional tennis.

Gauff’s courage in standing up for what she believed in, not only showcased her exceptional talent, but also sent a powerful message about self-assuredness in the sport.

Also read: After Stern Warning to 62YO Coach, American Tennis Star Coco Gauff Dissects ‘Nervous’ Father’s Tough US Open Decision – ‘Don’t Know If..’

Gauff went all in and lashed at her coach during the match

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It was 5-3 in the second set and the Dane was leading the set comfortably. After having lost the first set, Wozniacki made a terrific comeback and was on the brink of winning the second set. Unsurprisingly, after seeing his student lose the set, Brad took the opportunity to advise Coco Gauff.

Irritated by the coaching advice, Coco went all in and lashed at her coach. She said, “Please, just stop!” which showed how she wanted to remain completely focused and did not want any distraction, even if it was coming from her coach.

USA Today via Reuters

Thus, while many remark this as rude, others have come forward and supported the stance taken by Coco Gauff in the crucial moment in the game. What are your comments on this? Do let us know in the comments below!

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