Coco Gauff Parts Ways with Coach Brad Gilbert After US Open Setback

American tennis star Coco Gauff has ended her successful partnership with coach Brad Gilbert just two weeks after what she termed a "disappointing" defense of her US Open title. The split comes as a surprise to many, given the remarkable success the duo had achieved in just over a year together.

Gauff, 20, made history last year when she claimed her first Grand Slam title in New York under Gilbert's guidance. However, this year's campaign at Flushing Meadows ended prematurely, with Gauff bowing out in the fourth round to fellow American Emma Navarro. The loss came as a shock, considering her stellar form in the lead-up to the tournament.

Following their split, Gilbert took to social media to share his thoughts. "Coco, at just 20 years young, your future is incredibly bright, and I wish you nothing but continued success ahead," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "I'm excited for the next chapter in my coaching career."

Gilbert, a renowned coach who previously guided legends like Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and Andy Murray to Grand Slam success, was brought on board by Gauff after a disappointing first-round exit at Wimbledon last year. Working alongside Spanish coach Pere Riba, Gilbert helped engineer a dramatic turnaround in Gauff's form.

Following Wimbledon, Gauff went on a sensational run, winning 18 of her next 19 matches during the American hard-court swing. That streak included titles in Washington, Cincinnati, and culminated with her triumph at the 2023 US Open, cementing her status as one of tennis’ brightest young talents.

Despite the recent setback in New York, Gauff's future looks promising, as she remains one of the most exciting prospects in the sport. The reasons behind the split with Gilbert remain unclear, but the young star is expected to continue working with Riba as she sets her sights on reclaiming her Grand Slam form.

With Gilbert now pursuing new opportunities and Gauff entering a pivotal phase in her career, both parties look to the future with optimism. Tennis fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as Gauff navigates the next chapter of her journey.