Coco Gauff’s 2025 Season Overview
Coco Gauff’s quest for a successful 2025 season came to an end without a title defense at the WTA Finals, marking a year of growth despite the setback. At just 21, Gauff is on track to conclude the season ranked among the top three players in the WTA for the third year running. This conclusion follows her previous victory at the Finals held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she bested top rivals including Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka.
Performance at the WTA Finals
In this year’s round-robin matches, however, Gauff fell short against fellow American Jessica Pegula and Sabalenka, despite securing a win against Jasmine Paolini. A victory over Sabalenka in their final match would have seen her progress to the semi-finals, as she held promising leads at critical junctures, leading 5-3 at one point and even holding a 30-0 advantage while serving for the set. Unfortunately, an unexpected shift occurred, and she dropped eight consecutive points, allowing Sabalenka to edge ahead 6-5.
Insights from Coach Rick Macci
Renowned coach Rick Macci, known for mentoring tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams, shared his insights following Gauff’s performance. “Coco was in a strong position, and although she lost, this moment showcases her potential. With a newly refined serve and minimal double faults, she’s transforming her competitive mindset which will significantly impact her opponents as well,” Macci remarked.
In recent months, Macci has heavily emphasized the importance of Gauff’s serve. Now under the tutelage of coach Gavin MacMillan, Gauff aims to enhance her serve, which has previously been a weakness. Additionally, Macci pointed out that improving her forehand could turn it into a formidable asset by 2026.
“Coco is showing signs of rapid progress, and with adjustments to her forehand mechanics, she could propel herself toward the number one ranking,” Macci stated with optimism.
Looking Ahead
Gauff’s 2025 season has now wrapped up, providing her with a brief hiatus to recover and prepare for the next year’s challenges. As a versatile competitor excelling across all court surfaces, she is expected to be a front-runner in every Grand Slam tournament in the upcoming year.
This year’s WTA Finals will also see a new champion crowned, continuing a decade-long trend of different winners since Serena Williams secured her fifth title in 2014. The upcoming champions could include players like Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, Amanda Anisimova, or Jessica Pegula, who are all vying for their first title in this prestigious event.
