Serena and Venus Williams’ childhood coach, Rick Macci, has offered high praise for Coco Gauff, a rising star in tennis, calling her the “complete package” and one of the brightest prospects in the sport. Macci, who played an instrumental role in developing both Williams sisters from their early years, sees Gauff as having the same potential to dominate the game. He believes that Gauff, at just 20 years old, possesses the mental toughness, physical attributes, and emotional intelligence needed to reach the very top of the sport.
Macci’s admiration for Gauff goes beyond her obvious talent on the court. He emphasizes her maturity, composure, and resilience, which are rare traits for someone so young. Gauff’s ability to handle pressure and stay grounded under the spotlight reminds Macci of the early days of Serena and Venus. He draws parallels between Gauff’s mindset and the Williams sisters’ approach to tennis—fierce competitors, with a relentless drive to improve and achieve greatness.
Gauff’s work ethic and professionalism also stand out to Macci. He recalls how the Williams sisters, under his guidance, had an unwavering dedication to their craft, and he sees the same commitment in Gauff’s training and preparation. The 20-year-old’s impressive performances in major tournaments, including her breakthrough U.S. Open win in 2023, have only solidified Macci’s belief that she is on a path toward becoming one of the game’s greats.
Macci’s endorsement adds weight to Gauff’s growing reputation in the sport. With a combination of technical skill, mental fortitude, and a mature approach to her career, Gauff is poised to continue building on her success and make a lasting impact on the world of tennis.
