Novak Djokovic has praised Coco Gauff, saying that she should be aiming high at the 2023 US Open.
Sixth seed Gauff has made a strong start at the last Grand Slam of the season in New York. In the first round, she overcame a dramatic match in which her opponent Laura Siegemund received a time violation to win the match 3-6, 6-2, 6-4.
The 19-year-old then locked horns with 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva in the second round. The clash was a battle of the teens but it was the more experienced Gauff who prevailed, taking a commanding straight-sets victory over the Russian, 6-3, 6-2.
Djokovic predicts great things for Gauff
Gauff's success at Flushing Meadows comes off the back of two victories on the North American swing, winning both the WTA 500 DC Open and the WTA 1000 Cincinnati Open earlier this month.
Now, 23-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic has praised the rising tennis star, talking highly of her ability while also suggesting the American's coach Brad Gilbert, who she started working with in July, has been helping her to improve exponentially.
"Coco is on the rise. She’s yet to win a Grand Slam, but played in a final. She’s still young, but now with Brad Gilbert on her side with the experience of coaching some of the greats, things are coming together for her... she’s got the home support. Physically she’s very fit, striking the ball very well," Djokovic said.
The Serb added that while Gauff broke onto the scene at a very young age, she is now coming close to the level where she can win Grand Slams.
"She broke to the top of the women’s game quite early, but it still takes a few years to come together where you feel you’re complete as a player, ready to win Slams, and dominate the game.
"I think she’s coming very close to that stage and level. I’m sure she has high hopes for US Open, and she should. Because she’s playing really well," he added.
In the third round of the US Open, both players will face the 32nd seeds in their respective disciplines. Gauff will play Elise Mertens, while Djokovic is set to go up against his compatriot Laslo Djere as he continues his bid to win his fourth US Open title.