Is Coco Gauff’s WTA Reign in Jeopardy? Petkovic Sounds Alarm Over Troubling Season Start
Coco Gauff, currently ranked World No. 3, is experiencing a rocky start to her 2025 season, still searching for her first title of the year. After a breakout 2024 that included titles at the China Open and her first WTA Finals crown, expectations were high for the 20-year-old American. But so far, she’s struggled to maintain momentum.
Gauff opened the year on a strong note, helping Team USA clinch the United Cup and reaching the quarterfinals at the Australian Open before falling to Paula Badosa. However, her form dipped during the Middle East swing with early-round exits, and she suffered a fourth-round defeat to Belinda Bencic at Indian Wells.
Former WTA star Andrea Petkovic offered a candid take on Gauff’s current slump. According to Petkovic, tweaks made by Gauff’s new coach, Matt Daly—particularly changes to her serve grip—may not have settled properly, leading to inconsistency. Petkovic also noted Gauff may be reverting to old mechanics under pressure, resulting in unforced errors and vulnerability to lower-ranked opponents.
Despite the rough patch, Gauff’s talent and track record remain undeniable. A 2022 French Open finalist and 2024 Roland Garros doubles champion, she has shown she can compete with the sport’s elite. Tennis analyst Rennae Stubbs still sees Gauff as a major Grand Slam contender, especially on clay where her baseline game excels.
With the Stuttgart Open beginning April 17, Gauff will have another opportunity to reset her season. Currently sitting at 1,190 points in the Race to the WTA Finals—where only the top eight qualify for the year-end event in Riyadh—she faces mounting pressure to perform.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if the young star can overcome her current challenges and reclaim her place among the WTA’s most dominant forces.
