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‘I Never Even Say That..’- Veteran Tennis Coach Reveals How He Completely Went Out of the Box to Give Coco Gauff Much-Needed Citi Open Title

Published 08/11/2023, 12:13 AM EDT

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In the world of tennis, where each racquet swing is determined, and each essential move is fastidiously arranged, a murmur of an irregular training approach has left the tennis world swirling. The 19-year-old prodigy, Coco Gauff, secured her most memorable WTA 500 title at the Mubadala Citi DC Open. In preparation for it, her seasoned mentor, Brad Gilbert, tested the customary ways of thinking. In a recent interview, Gilbert uncovered a regimen strategy that defied the norms of tennis coaching, steering Gauff to a remarkable triumph.

The tennis world has found itself fixated on Coco Gauff’s journey. The young sensation had previously shown her ability on the court, demonstrating her strength against imposing rivals. The American has embarked on a new chapter of her tennis journey. She decided to add an unexpected addition to her team – Brad Gilbert, a name synonymous with coaching excellence. With his guidance, she plans to steer wins on and off the court.

Brad Gilbert’s bold coaching move propels Coco Gauff to DC Citi Open glory

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As the match unfurled, the tennis world watched, stunned. Coco Gauff’s exhibition was a demonstration of Gilbert’s novel coaching style, which engaged the American’s entire skilled range of abilities. With her win, Gauff got her most memorable WTA 500 title as well as cementing the legacy of a coaching masterstroke.

In his recent interview with WTA Insider, Gilbert expounded on his methodology. He revealed insight into his way of thinking that rose above the ordinary. He shared, “We haven’t changed anything with the forehand, I never even say that word.” Gilbert also explained, “That starts to consume you. Also, it tears down other shots when all you can do is fixate on one thing. So I tend to not fixate on it at all.”

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Brad Gilbert was able to challenge norms, dismiss obsession with weakness, and harness a player’s maximum potential had brought about an unprecedented change. It was an update that in the consistently evolving scene of tennis, where systems are sharpened flawlessly, there is still space for trying, for trial and error, and for revamping the rules.

However, Gauff’s capricious training with Gilbert during the Citi Open in Washington didn’t simply enrapture the tennis world. It resounded profoundly with legends of the game. As the local tennis area hummed, one American tennis legend, Chris Evert, ventured forward to share her point of view of Gauff’s essential move.

Gauff earns praise from tennis legend Chris Evert after impressive Citi Open victory

Chris Evert commends Coco Gauff for enlisting the services of Brad Gilbert, the former coach of Andre Agassi. Over the last four months, the 19-year-old underwent a series of coaching changes. These moves culminated in her collaboration with Gilbert, resulting in a significant career victory. With her success, both fans and tennis legends are advocating for Gauff to solidify Gilbert’s role as a permanent member of her team. Evert, a fellow American, took to Twitter to praise the decision, noting how Gauff appeared more at ease alongside Gilbert.

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The 18-time Grand Slam champion shared Tennis Infinity’s article and, observing Gauff’s improved demeanor, described it as a “smart move“. Apart from his work with Gauff, Gilbert also contributed to the upcoming film ‘Challengers,’ coaching Zendaya and British actor Josh O’Connor.

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What do you think about Gilbert and his teaching moves? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Dr Aditya Raveendran Menon

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Aditya Menon is a Tennis Writer at EssentiallySports, covering several high-profile tournaments and events. With a passion for writing that matches his love for the sport, he has a special interest in covering the activities of tennis legends like Serena Williams and the ‘Big Three’ of men’s tennis. Aditya’s interest in tennis started at a young age when his father introduced him to the sport.
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Edited by:

Mitali Dey