EXCLUSIVE: Serena Williams’ Ex-Coach Exposes Coco Gauff’s Tactical Flaws – Unseen Strategy Revealed!

In an exclusive interview sending ripples through the tennis world, Patrick Mouratoglou — famed former coach of Serena Williams — has offered a rare behind-the-scenes analysis of Coco Gauff, the 21-year-old rising star many have dubbed “the future of American tennis.”

While Mouratoglou praised Gauff’s athleticism, fighting spirit, and charisma, he also delivered a blunt assessment: “Coco has the raw talent to dominate, but tactically, she’s still vulnerable — especially against more experienced players who know how to exploit her rhythm.”

According to Mouratoglou, who helped Serena Williams win multiple Grand Slams during their decade-long partnership, Gauff’s biggest weakness is her court positioning and shot selection under pressure.

“She’s fast, but sometimes she’s too reactive, not proactive. Against aggressive baseliners, she stays too deep, allowing opponents to dictate the point. That gives away too much ground.”

Coco Gauff forehand too 'dodgy' to make Serena Williams comparison, says  coach

In particular, Mouratoglou pointed out Gauff’s second serve and forehand as key pressure points.

“Her second serve tends to sit up, especially on hard courts. Top 10 players are attacking it more aggressively. And while her backhand is world-class, the forehand can break down when she’s rushed or pulled wide.”

These tactical insights come after Gauff’s recent mixed performances during the hardcourt season — including a surprising early-round loss at the Canadian Open, followed by a strong rebound in Cincinnati. Analysts agree that while Gauff has the mentality of a champion, she’s still evolving technically and strategically.

What makes Mouratoglou’s insights especially compelling is his track record: helping Serena adapt her game well into her 30s, developing Simona Halep’s late-career resurgence, and now working with a new generation of players at his academy in France.

But he was quick to emphasize that Gauff’s flaws are not fixed — they’re coachable.

“She’s incredibly intelligent, and her work ethic is elite. What she needs now is focused tactical training — improving transition play, stepping inside the baseline, adding variation. If she does that, she can dominate the next decade.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgsBRNIYLzA

He also revealed an unseen strategy many opponents are beginning to adopt against Gauff — slowing down the pace and targeting her forehand early in rallies, forcing her to generate power and take initiative. It’s a tactic designed to expose hesitation and reduce her comfort zone.

“Players are no longer intimidated by her speed. They’re using it against her — making her run to uncomfortable zones and breaking her rhythm.”

Despite the critique, Mouratoglou ended with admiration:

“Coco reminds me of Serena in her early years — fearless, emotional, gifted. The difference is Serena learned how to own the court. That’s the next step for Coco.”

As the US Open approaches, all eyes will be on Gauff to see if she adjusts her game in time — or if her opponents will continue to exploit these cracks in her armor.

Because in today’s tennis landscape, talent gets you noticed — but strategy wins titles.