American world number three Coco Gauff says it was a “sudden decision” to hire the biomechanics expert who helped rival Aryna Sabalenka overcome her serving troubles.
Gauff, 21, decided to reshuffle her coaching team on the eve of the US Open after hitting a high amount of double faults in her last three matches at the recent Cincinnati Open.
Matt Daly – a grip specialist who worked on her serve and forehand – paid the price and left his role with Gauff, despite helping her win the French Open title in June.
Instead, she has been working on the US Open practice courts this week with technique coach Gavin MacMillan, who is widely credited with improving Sabalenka and enabling her to win three Grand Slam titles.
Gauff’s other coach, Jean-Christophe Faurel, remains part of the team.
“Gavin became available. I just felt this was the best decision for my game and I had to go with what I was feeling,” said Gauff.
“Matt is a great coach, a great person, and I love working with him. We had a very successful partnership, but I’m just looking at long term.”
It is a bold move in the lead-up to Gauff’s home Grand Slam, where she landed her maiden major title two years ago.
