Coco Gauff has revealed the truth behind her erratic serve after several fans noted a persisting high number of double faults in her matches.
The 20-year-old was knocked out by compatriot Madison Keys in the fourth round of the 2024 Madrid Open, 6-7, 6-4, 4-6, in two and a half hours. The eyebrow-raising statistic from the match was Gauff’s 12 double faults, which contributed to the loss.
For the second straight match in Madrid, Gauff’s serve looked shaky. She registered eight double faults in her straight-set win over Dayana Yastremska just the previous round, with six of those coming in the first set, where she nearly blew a 5-0 lead.
It was only in January at the Australian Open that the young American hit the fastest serve in the women’s singles tournament at 201 km/h (125 mph) in her semifinal defeat to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka.
Fans have since shared their concerns about Gauff’s frailties in serving. The reigning US Open champion has since shed light on what has transpired in recent months that has left many questioning whether her serve is becoming her weakest shot.
“My serve is evolving and there is a lot of minor changes being made. It’s difficult when you’re trying to do new things. When it’s on, it’s definitely a weapon and I guess it’s just making it more consistent.”
Gauff, who was broken seven times by Madison Keys, had been struggling with her forehand in her young career. Last summer, she hired renowned coach Brad Gilbert to address the issue.
Through Gilbert, Gauff got in touch with Andy Roddick during the off-season to try and incorporate some changes into her serve. While the forehand has gradually become slightly refined and more reliable, the serve appears to be a work in progress, as explained by World No. 3.
