Coco Gauff’s ex-coach Pere Riba has predicted that his former charge will become the WTA World No. 1 in 2024.
The Spaniard explained that he is splitting with the American star because of “family issues of a personal nature” and claimed that he is happy for achieving the objectives.
Gauff added Former World No. 65 to her team during the grass court season back earlier in June while also brining in legendary coach Brad Gilbert as a consultant in Washington in August. The teenaged US Open champion enjoyed the best spell of her career under Riba’s charge as he won WTA 500 event in Washington, the WTA 1000 tournament in Cincinnati and then New York Major – her maiden triumphs at three levels.
Currently enjoying her World No. 3 rank, Gauff won 22 of her last 24 matches since losing to Sofia Kenin in the R2 at All England Club in July.
During a press conference at the showpiece WTA Finals event in Cancun this week, the 19-year-old confirmed the Riba’s departure after the China Open in Beijing last month.
“Unfortunately, it wasn’t my decision. But we had to end the partnership. If it was up to me, I would have loved to have him here. But you know, things happen. Life happens. So no bad terms on our end,” said Gauff.
“Sometimes people think it’s bigger than what it is. But some things just didn’t work out and that’s all. I still think that he was a great guy. And obviously, he did amazing things for me personally and also for my game. So I’m sure he’s going to be successful in his next step.”
Speaking to Marca, Riba revealed the reason behind the decision of stepping down from the job of co-coaching Gauff while he expressed his satisfaction at the massive success of the American under his tutelage.
“For family issues of a personal nature. I am very happy with the work we have done together, because all the objectives were met, and I am convinced that next year Gauff will be number one,” said the Spaniard.
Gauff has yet to reveal if she will bring another coach to fill the role and join the duties with Gilbert.
She made a quick work of Ons Jabeur in her R1 match at the WTA Finals by beating the Tunisian 6-0, 6-1 in straight sets. Gauff will face the challenge of Pole WTA #2 seed, Iga Swiatek in second round-robin tie on Wednesday before taking on Marketa Vondrousova on Friday.