Former US Open champion Coco Gauff says she has made adjustments to her game in recent weeks but is reluctant to elaborate on the details.
The world No.4 told reporters at the Wuhan Open on Thursday that these changes are being managed under the watchful eye of her new coach Matt Daly. Daly, who has previously worked with Denis Shapovalov, has been brought in to replace Brad Gilbert. He is known for his work on footwork and grip technique. Daly also played a role in the launch of Grip MD which is a device that can be used on the racket to help a person’s grip.
Given his past work, Gauff indicated that there is ongoing work being done on her grip. However, she is keeping coy about what these changes are.
“I don’t want to give too much of what’s going on, but there are changes happening,” she said.
“I’ve been playing with them, those changes, since Beijing.
“I’m very open. He (Daly) has a lot of expertise in that area. Not honestly just that. He does really good at tactical stuff and the mental side, too.
“Matt is great. We’re changing stuff.”
The new partnership has got off to a successful start with Gauff currently on a eight-match winning streak. Her latest victory was a 6-4, 6-1, win over Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk in the third round at Wuhan. She has now won 17 hard-court matches at WTA 1000 events this year.
“I think going into Wuhan, I felt no pressure, no anything, just because Beijing, it’s over, it’s in the past. I think when you’re coming into this tournament if you look at some of the players who made the semifinal (in Beijing), almost all of them, except me and Qinwen, pulled out because it’s such a quick turnaround.” She said.
“I just wanted to push myself how I could play while I am tired because I am tired, I’m not going to lie.”
Gauff has won six out of 14 matches against top 20 opposition so far this season. She will play Poland’s Magda Linette in the quarter-finals at Wuhan.
