Coco Gauff explains why she chose to play at the United Cup ahead of the Australian Open

Coco Gauff recently explained her decision to participate in the United Cup ahead of the Australian Open, highlighting the importance of team competition and the unique opportunity the tournament offers in preparation for the first Grand Slam of the year. Gauff, who is known for her strategic approach to her tennis schedule, emphasized that the United Cup provides valuable match play against top-level opponents, which helps her sharpen her game leading into Melbourne.

Gauff mentioned that she enjoys the team atmosphere of the United Cup, where she can represent her country alongside other top American players. “It’s a rare chance to compete in a team format, which is really special for me,” Gauff said. She noted that the camaraderie and support from her teammates create a different environment from the individual nature of most tennis events, allowing her to grow both as a player and a leader.

In addition to the team aspect, Gauff sees the United Cup as the perfect warm-up event, giving her competitive matches against strong international players without the pressure of a Grand Slam. This helps her fine-tune her game and build confidence as she heads into the Australian Open.

For Gauff, balancing the competitive experience with the opportunity to bond with her team and represent the U.S. made the United Cup an ideal choice in her 2024 season preparations. By playing in the tournament, she feels well-prepared both mentally and physically for the challenges that await in Melbourne.