Coco Gauff reveals why her long nails are here to stay despite struggles with forehand

Coco Gauff talks about her long-standing issues with her forehand.

Coco Gauff reveals why her long nails are here to stay despite struggles with forehand

Coco Gauff (Source: French Open)

Coco Gauff breezed into the semifinals of the 2023 Citi Open as she defeated Belinda Bencic in straight sets in the quarterfinals. The American was absolutely relentless, dropping just three games en-route to her victory. The third seed now faces Liudmila Samsonova in the semifinals on Saturday.

Coco Gauff has improved drastically as a player over the past couple of years. She has identified a few flaws in her game and has worked on them to become a better competitor. However, her struggles with her forehand still continue. The American has an unsteady forehand which has cost her several big points at important events.

YouTube video

It was believed that the reason for her forehand struggles could be her long nails. However, the youngster revealed that she did cut her nails short, but the outcome did not change. Hence, she jokingly stated that her long nails are here to stay now as she identified problems with her movement on the court.

FS Video

Also Read: Roger Federer’s coach Severin Luthi speaks on tranquil life after retirement, hints at possible comeback as coach on tour

Coco Gauff identifies reason for continued struggles with forehand

Coco Gauff (Source: Twitter)
Coco Gauff (Source: Twitter)

Coco Gauff revealed that she should start moving a little bit more freely on the court. This could perhaps help her solve her forehand problems up to a certain extent. The 2022 French Open runner-up is yet to win a title this season, after her triumph at the ASB Classic in January. Given that the Canadian Open and the 2023 US Open are just around the corner, a title in Washington could do her confidence a whole world of good.

“I know a lot of people think I need to cut my nails to help me win a forehand better. I did try the short nails, & it did not make my forehand better. These are here to stay. I need to move my feet. That’s what I need to do,” said Gauff.

Coco Gauff will look to perform well at her home Grand Slam at the Flushing Meadows next month. She has not had the best record at Major events this year, as she was defeated in the first round itself at 2023 Wimbledon. She was defeated by Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals of the 2023 French Open where she seemed to be among the leading contenders for the title.

Also Read: