US Open 2026: Coco Gauff Demonstrates Her Rejuvenated Serve in New York Win Over Zeynep Sonmez
BBC Sport reports on Coco Gauff’s impressive return to the US Open, highlighting her improved serve.
In the world of tennis, the sight of a struggling Coco Gauff hitting serves in the rain had become emblematic of her 2023 challenges. Serving yips were undermining her talent, as she desperately sought to resolve a major weakness in her game. Fast forward to 2024, and Gauff has returned to the US Open with a rejuvenated service game, which was crucial in her 6-3 6-4 win over Zeynep Sonmez.
Gauff’s confident serve set the tone for her dominant first set, and she used it as a lifeline in the second when Sonmez threatened a break. "It feels good to come into a tournament feeling confident on that shot finally," Gauff noted.
Last year, Gauff reshuffled her coaching team, hiring biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan – who had previously aided Aryna Sabalenka with serving issues. This move, though risky given the US Open’s intense scrutiny, was necessary after a high number of double faults at the Cincinnati Open.
Gauff’s serve, now more consistent and accurate, has been a key factor in her recent success, notably the Cincinnati Open title. Analysis shows her serves are striking closer to the line while maintaining speed, marking a significant improvement in accuracy. Gauff is now confident her serve can dominate opponents.
