Gauff and Gilbert part company as coach looks ahead to 'next chapter'

World number six Coco Gauff, aged 20, and her coach Brad Gilbert, aged 63, have decided to part ways following Gauff's disappointing fourth-round exit from the US Open. Gilbert announced this development on Wednesday, expressing his anticipation for the next phase of his coaching career.

Under Gilbert's guidance, Gauff secured her first Grand Slam title in New York last year; however, she was unable to defend her title after unsatisfactory performances in the US Open preparatory tournaments held in Toronto and Cincinnati.

Gilbert expressed his gratitude on social media, stating, "Thanks to @CocoGauff and the entire team for an absolutely amazing summer run in 2023 and for 14 months of incredible team effort."

He, who reached a career-high ranking of number four in the world during his 13-year playing career, added, "Coco, at just 20 years young, your future is incredibly bright, and I wish you nothing but continued success ahead. I’m excited for the next chapter in my coaching career."

In response, Gauff acknowledged her former coach in a social media post later that day, saying, "We had an incredible run and I wish you all the best in the future!"

Following her significant achievement at Flushing Meadows, Gauff also reached the semi-finals at both the Australian Open and French Open this year.

However, there were evident signs of tension between her and Gilbert during Wimbledon, where she expressed her frustration towards him during her fourth-round loss to fellow American Emma Navarro.

SportsLigue