7.8 C
London
Friday, March 29, 2024

Chris Evert identifies reason for Cori Gauff’s poor WTA Finals showing

- Advertisement -

Former 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert thought that Cori Gauff looked “tired” during the WTA Finals and advised the 18-year-old to learn when to “take a little breather.” Last week in Fort Worth, Gauff made her WTA Finals debut.

Unfortunately for Gauff, it wasn’t a memorable WTA Finals debut for her, having lost each of her six matches – she went 0-3 in the singles event and also went winless with Jessica Pegula in the doubles event. Evert isn’t suggesting that Gauff should have skipped the WTA Finals, but rather that she should have put herself in a position to be a bit more fresh for the season-ending tournament.

“She looked tired this tournament. She’s actually looked tired the last few tournaments. I think it’s a lot to ask. That’s why we have that restrictive rule, parents would give us such a hard time about it but you have no idea you’re going to burn your kid out,” Evert said, per Eurosport.

Evert identifies areas Gauff needs to improve

Evert, one of the greatest players in tennis history, said Gauff needs a “more consistent forehand” and also “a safer and more confident serve.” But if Gauff wants to improve those areas and overall her game, Evert says she needs time on the practice court – which means she can’t be competing in tournaments week after week.

“And I don’t think that’s going to happen just playing week after week after week. I think she plays a lot, I think she’s a very physical player, I think the competition is so much tougher now than in any other era.

So it’s almost like playing the semi-final or a final the first round you play and by the time these players get to the quarters or semis, they’re exhausted, and then they have to play next week. Maybe play less doubles too.

I’d like to see her take a little breather, she’s 18. At some point take some time off and really try to iron out that forehand side,” Evert added.

Latest news
Related news