Coco Gauff’s season was concluded just last week, as she bowed out of the WTA Finals in the group stages.
It marked an underwhelming title defence from the American, but likely ushered in a welcome rest as the off-season gets underway.
Many have suggested that the 21-year-old needed this break more than most, given her well-documented issues.
Her Roland Garros title was sensational, but it papered over the cracks of a struggling serve and a misfiring forehand.
So, when Gauff announced she had hired a new coach, completely uprooting her staff on the eve of the US Open, many felt she had taken a big and bold step towards hopefully solving her outstanding issues.
However, a decision she has now made regarding her 2026 schedule might already be a mistake that prohibits the progression she was set to make under Gavin MacMillan.
Coco Gauff announces she will play at the United Cup in 2026
Earlier this month, 18 countries released their lineups for the United Cup, boasting five of the world’s top ten men and four of the world’s top ten women.
Naturally, the two-time champions from America will fancy their chances, spearheaded by Coco Gauff.
The world number three will be joined by Taylor Fritz, and their former success has seen them tipped as the top seeds.
Other teams consist of Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz, Alexander Zverev and Eva Lys, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari, and Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu.
However, whilst this lighthearted competition will afford Gauff an easy entry back into semi-competitive play, it might be an unnecessary risk for someone who needs time with their coach more than anyone.
Coco Gauff would’ve benefited from more time with her new coach
Currently likely enjoying some much-needed rest, it will surely not be long before Gauff gets back to work.
And, when she does, this could possibly be the most important training block of her young career.
After all, MacMillan is famed for fixing Aryna Sabalenka’s serve many years ago, turning her from wasted potential into the best player in the world.
Whilst she will argue that the United Cup provides a relaxed match environment in which to practice her new techniques, given the difficulties she has faced, focusing solely on training would not have hurt.
The 2026 season is not even close to getting underway, and yet Gauff may already have made a crucial error that might define her year.
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