Coco Gauff shocked the tennis world with a major decision just days before the start of the 2025 US Open. The young American parted ways with long-time coach Matt Daly and has brought in biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan to guide her during the season’s final Grand Slam. The move comes after disappointing results at Wimbledon, where she suffered an early exit, and at the Cincinnati Masters, where she fell in the quarterfinals.
Gauff’s serve has been the biggest concern in recent months. Double faults and inconsistency at crucial moments have cost her matches against top-ranked opponents. By hiring MacMillan, who is known for his innovative, data-driven methods, she aims to rebuild confidence and add precision to her game. MacMillan has previously worked with World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, helping her refine her powerful game, and now he faces the challenge of reviving Gauff’s momentum before one of the most demanding tournaments on the calendar.
The women’s draw is packed with intrigue. Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters as the top seed, while players like Iga Świątek, Elena Rybakina, and Jessica Pegula remain strong contenders. With Gauff’s new coaching setup, expectations are rising that she could make a deep run and perhaps deliver a breakthrough performance on home soil in New York. The US Open itself begins under unusual circumstances.
For the first time in history, the tournament starts on a Sunday instead of the traditional Monday. Organizers extended the schedule to 15 days in order to reduce the pressure on players and accommodate television broadcasters. However, the change has sparked criticism from athletes and fans alike. Australian player Jordan Thompson voiced strong opposition, calling the adjustment disruptive and unnecessary. Another point of debate surrounds mixed doubles. The event has been redesigned with a smaller draw of just 16 teams, but with a record $1 million prize for the winners.
In addition, new experimental rules such as shortened sets and no-ad scoring have been introduced. While the changes are intended to make the competition more exciting for viewers, many doubles specialists argue that it undermines the tradition and prestige of their discipline. Beyond these controversies, the spotlight remains firmly on Gauff. At only 21 years old, she has already experienced both the highs of winning the US Open in 2023 and the lows of inconsistent form in 2024.
This coaching gamble reflects her determination to prove that she belongs at the top of the sport and can once again capture the hearts of fans in Flushing Meadows. With the stage set, the 2025 US Open promises drama, star power, and historic storylines. From Gauff’s bold coaching change to the return of Carlos Alcaraz and the rise of Jannik Sinner in the men’s game, New York is ready to host a Grand Slam that could redefine the future of tennis.
