In the lead-up to the 2025 US Open, Coco Gauff made a strategic change to her team, bringing on Gavin MacMillan as her new coach. With the Grand Slam just days away, Gauff’s primary focus was to address a growing concern that had plagued her season — an unusually high number of double faults. Throughout 2025, Gauff racked up approximately 306 double faults across 46 matches, an average of over six per match.
Such statistics are not just numbers on a scoresheet — they reflect moments of lost control, shifted momentum, and unnecessary pressure. For a player ranked among the best in the world, gifting free points to opponents is not just frustrating but potentially match-defining. Gauff, known for her mental toughness and athleticism, was determined to eliminate this vulnerability in her service game.
Yet, while much of the tennis world focused on her serving inconsistencies, MacMillan saw something deeper. In his early sessions with Gauff, he identified another technical issue that could have even wider implications for her game — the nature of her ball bounce, particularly on certain groundstrokes.
MacMillan revealed that one of the hidden challenges Gauff faces is that her shots tend to “bounce flat.” This means that after the ball hits the court, it doesn’t rise or kick up in a way that troubles opponents. Instead, it stays low and sits up, allowing more aggressive players to step in and take control. While her speed, agility, and fighting spirit often help her recover in rallies, this subtle flaw can make it easier for top-tier opponents to dictate play.
Addressing this issue could mark the next major step in Gauff’s development. While the serve is the immediate priority, improving her shot shape and ball trajectory could unlock a new level in her offensive game. MacMillan’s emphasis on this overlooked detail suggests a long-term vision for Gauff — one where her raw athleticism is paired with greater technical refinement.
As Gauff continues her journey toward becoming a more complete player, her willingness to confront both obvious and hidden weaknesses speaks volumes about her commitment to excellence. With the US Open approaching, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how these adjustments play out on the court.