Coco Gauff has insisted she has no regrets about changing her coaching team before the 2025 US Open, describing the decision as one that has helped her grow both as a player and as a person.
The 21-year-old American made headlines in August when she parted ways with her long-time coach Matthew “Matt” Daly and brought in Gavin MacMillan, a biomechanics specialist known for his scientific approach to player development. The move raised eyebrows at the time, coming just weeks before the final Grand Slam of the year.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Gauff reflected on the decision, saying she remains completely confident that it was the right one for her career trajectory.
“I definitely don’t regret my decision [to change coaches] or anything,” she said. “I would do it a thousand times over. It made me a better player and a better person off the court, having to navigate all of that.”
The world number four explained that while the transition was challenging, it ultimately gave her new perspective on how to handle the pressures of the WTA Tour. “Sometimes on tour, you think you’ve got the hang of it, but there’s always new territory to be faced,” Gauff continued. “I think that was something new, and it’s not going to be the first or last time in my career that there will be more attention.”
Gauff’s decision to part ways with Daly came after a mixed summer swing in which she struggled for form following her Wimbledon quarterfinal exit. Under MacMillan, however, Gauff made notable technical adjustments to her serve and forehand, aiming for greater consistency and control. While she fell short of defending her 2024 US Open title, her performances showed improved stability, particularly in her movement and ball placement.
Sources close to the player suggested the change was not due to personal issues but rather a desire for a more scientific, data-driven approach to her game. MacMillan, who has previously worked with top athletes across various sports, is regarded for his focus on body mechanics and injury prevention — a philosophy that appealed to Gauff’s long-term ambitions.
“Coco’s approach has always been about progress and curiosity,” one member of her team told Sky Sports. “She’s young, but she’s constantly looking for ways to evolve. The coaching change was about growth, not reaction.”
The decision also came at a time when Gauff was balancing immense expectations as one of the faces of American tennis. Since winning her first Grand Slam at the 2024 US Open, the Florida native has been under the global spotlight, handling both success and scrutiny with maturity beyond her years.
Her 2025 season has seen mixed results, with deep runs in several tournaments but also some surprising early exits. Yet Gauff’s perspective remains grounded — a trait that has endeared her to fans and pundits alike.
“I’ve learned that every choice you make in this sport brings something new,” she said. “Even if it doesn’t work out perfectly, it teaches you something about yourself.”
The partnership with MacMillan is still in its early stages, but signs of improvement are evident. Analysts have praised Gauff’s refined footwork and reduced unforced error count, particularly on hard courts.
Former players have also defended her timing. “There’s never a perfect time to make a coaching change,” said former US Open finalist Madison Keys. “But Coco is smart. If she felt it was time, then she probably saw something that the rest of us didn’t.”
As the 2025 season nears its conclusion, Gauff’s focus has shifted to preparing for the WTA Finals and the upcoming 2026 season. Despite the media attention surrounding her coaching decisions, she remains unfazed.
“This sport is about evolution,” she added. “You can’t be afraid to take risks. Every great player has made tough calls, and I’m learning to trust myself more with every decision.”
For Gauff, who continues to carry the hopes of American tennis, the coaching change is not a setback but a step forward — one she believes will define her next chapter.
