Coco Gauff faces challenges as she returns to Miami Open after birthday

In Miami Gardens, Florida, Coco Gauff prepares for the Miami Open following the celebration of her 21st birthday. This event marks her return to competition after a challenging period where she faced several consecutive match losses. Gauff experienced a tough stint at the Australian Open, Qatar, and Dubai, where she lost two or three matches in a row, causing concern among fans and analysts about her mental state. However, Gauff reassures her supporters, stating that these rough patches are normal in a long season and she remains unfazed by the speculation surrounding her performance. As the tournament approaches, Gauff is seeded No. 3 and thus secures a first-round bye. She is set to compete against either Petra Kvitova or Sofia Kenin in the second round. Gauff describes the Miami Open as her 'home tournament,' given her proximity to the event and her history of participation. Despite her current struggles, she focuses on the positive aspect of competing at a venue that feels familiar and supportive. The tennis star also discusses ongoing changes to her game that commenced after her success at the 2023 U.S. Open. This includes adjustments in her coaching staff and technical modifications to her serve and forehand. Gauff emphasizes that although these changes have been difficult, they are essential for her long-term improvement and success in tennis. Her elite backhand is recognized as a strength, while her forehand remains an area of focus for refinement. Gauff acknowledges the pressure of being a top player, where public expectations can be daunting after a couple of losses. While she expresses disappointment in her recent results, she remains optimistic about her career trajectory. As she heads into the Miami Open, Gauff is determined to elevate her game and prove her capabilities on the court, reaffirming that every professional athlete experiences ups and downs throughout their careers.