WIMBLEDON: Former world No.1 Serena Williams believes Cori Gauff is a contender to win a major tournament despite her age and lack of experience.
Gauff has stunned the women’s draw at Wimbledon. Becoming the youngest player in the Open Era to come through qualifying, the 15-year-old has scored wins over Venus Williams, Magdalena Rybarikova and Polona Hercog. On Friday, she battled back from a set and a break down to defeat Hercog to reach the fourth round. Becoming the youngest player to do so in the women’s draw since Jennifer Capriati back in 1991.
“I think she’s doing everything great. A big fan actually. I am so excited for her. Love her family. Gosh, I just couldn’t feel more proud.” Said Williams.
“I would be wrong to step in right now and give her advice. I think she’s doing great.” She added.
On the WTA Tour, the youngest person currently inside the top 30 is Amanda Anisimova, who is still two years older than Gauff at 17. Nevertheless, Wiliams believes the rising star already has what it takes to triumph at the very top. In the history of the Wimbledon Championships, the youngest woman to claim the title in the Open Era was Martina Hingis at the age of 16 in 1997.
“I think there are some 15-year-olds, like me, who wouldn’t know what to do at Wimbledon. Then you have a 15-year-old like Coco who knows what to do.” The 37-year-old explained.
“I think she’s definitely on a different level, so I think she’s totally capable and ready, to be honest. Yeah, I just think it just depends. Not every 15-year-old is the same.”
It isn’t just Williams who thinks the skies the limit for the teenager. Roger Federer also believes the prospect of a young player winning a grand slam is possible. The 20-time grand slam champion is more than familiar with Gauff’s, who belongs to his Team8 management agency. The two also have sponsorship deals with Italian food manufacturer Barilla.
“I don’t see a reason why younger women players should run into physical issues or not win tournaments young. I think it’s possible.” Said Federer.
“She (Gauff) seems developed. She’s moving great. I think it’s one of her great strengths. And her mind, which is not usually the case when you look at younger players.”
Gauff will play Simona Halep at Wimbledon on Monday.
Youngest women to reach the fourth round of a grand slam
-Jenifer Capriati – 14 years, 73 days
-Mary Joe Fernandez – 14 years, 295 days
-Martina Hingis – 14 years, 345 days
-Steffi Graf – 15 years, 24 days
-Gabriella Sabatini – 15 years, 24 days
-Anna Kournikova – 15 years, 93 days
-Cori GaufF – 15 years, 122 days
