A Legend's Blueprint for Gauff
Martina Navratilova, one of the most decorated players in tennis history, has laid out exactly what she hopes to see from Coco Gauff as the American begins her campaign at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells. The 18-time Grand Slam singles champion wants Gauff to be bolder at the net, insisting the young American has the tools to dominate points from that position. Navratilova pointed to Gauff's exceptional defensive ability as the foundation for a more attacking approach, arguing that once Gauff pushes an opponent wide or on the stretch, she should follow the ball forward rather than waiting at the baseline. Navratilova noted that Gauff possesses good volleys and outstanding reach, making it very difficult for opponents to pass her or loft a successful lob over her head.
A Familiar Stage, Fresh Opportunity
Gauff arrives at this year-end championship with plenty of motivation. She is the only former WTA Finals champion remaining in the draw after defending champion Elena Rybakina withdrew due to illness. The 22-year-old has qualified for the event for the fifth straight year, a remarkable run of consistency that only Aryna Sabalenka surpasses among this year's field in terms of appearances. Gauff's 2026 season has included the Cincinnati Open title, finals in Miami and Rome, and back-to-back Grand Slam semi-finals at Wimbledon and the US Open. She opens against fellow American Jessica Pegula, a player who handed her a round-robin defeat in 2025. No player has won the WTA Finals more than once since Serena Williams claimed three straight titles between 2012 and 2014, and Gauff has a real chance to break that streak. TennisDraw users have been closely watching her draw position and backing her as a serious contender heading into the tournament.
