Mats Wilander believes Coco Gauff brings a ‘different’ flavor to the way in which women’s tennis is played following her US Open triumph

Mats Wilander showers praises on Gauff after her US Open victory

Mats Wilander believes Coco Gauff brings a ‘different’ flavor to the way in which women’s tennis is played following her US Open triumph

Coco Gauff kisses US Open trophy (Image via US Open)

As new history was created at Flushing Meadows with the 19-year-old American Coco Gauff winning the US Open 2023, a lot of ex-players and others showered praise on the World No. 6. This is her first Grand Slam victory of her career, and what a delight for it to be the US Open.

Mats Wilander, former World No. 1, called her victory a “huge moment for American tennis,” reminding people that she is the first American to win a slam after Sofia Kenin in 2020, who was the Australian Open Champion that year.

He claims that she has set an example for the future generation of American tennis. The former Swedish player also complimented her style of play, given her very short height. He further added, “She’s very clever, playing with heights, with different speeds, you know.” 

Mats Wilander mentioned that Coco Gauff brings a different flavor and element to the game, which is quite a bit different from how women’s tennis is normally played. He adds, “[She won] with a different kind of tennis than we’re used to on the women’s tour.”

He praised Gauff for her perfect height and ball speed coordination and how she understands these dimensions really well. He also says how her short height has never been a factor of disadvantage in her career; rather, she has used it in her favor.

Talking about how Gauff is an inspiration to Americans and female tennis players all over the globe, Mats points out how she can bring so much to the game and inspire youngsters to do the same. He mentions, “It’s very optimistic for the future of the girls that sometimes they feel like if they’re not too tall, they don’t hit strong, and they can’t win matches.” 

Also Read: “Burning so bright right now,” Coco Gauff tears apart haters in epic US Open speech

Coco Gauff went from a kid in the stands to a Champion

Coco Gauff
Coco Gauff ( Credits: People)

As the popular saying goes, ‘dreams do come true’, and this was proven right by American teen Coco Gauff when she won the US Open 2023, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a 3-set thriller.

She became the first American teenager to win the US Open since Serena Williams did it in 1999. From watching her idols, Serena Williams and Venus Williams, at the Arthur Ashe Stadium to winning it one day and lifting the trophy in front of her home crowd, she has indeed had a wonderful and inspiring journey so far. 

This is only the beginning of her career, and there are so many other great things written for the teen. She has proved all her haters wrong and even silenced those who questioned her greatness at one point. She has only gone on to prove that with extreme hard work and determination, any dream can be fulfilled and heights can be achieved. 

In case you missed it: