Coco Gauff continues to rise as the new face of American tennis, and at just 21 years old, she’s already being discussed in the same breath as legends. But what truly sets her apart? According to Rick Macci — the renowned coach who helped build the foundation of Serena and Venus Williams — Gauff’s greatest weapon isn’t a forehand, a serve, or her athleticism… it’s her mentality, shaped from inside her own home.

Former Serena Williams Coach Makes Striking Claim About Coco Gauff’s “Champion Mentality” and Family Foundation-

Coco Gauff continues to rise as the new face of American tennis, and at just 21 years old, she’s already being discussed in the same breath as legends. But what truly sets her apart? According to Rick Macci — the renowned coach who helped build the foundation of Serena and Venus Williams — Gauff’s greatest weapon isn’t a forehand, a serve, or her athleticism… it’s her mentality, shaped from inside her own home.

🔥 “She’s wired differently”: Macci breaks down Gauff’s mindset
In a recent post on X, Macci highlighted that Gauff’s mental toughness is not accidental, but a product of her upbringing:

Coco is getting stronger mentally because of adversity. Some get weaker, but she is wired very different from being in a home of athletes, and they can take negatives and flip them into more determination, focus, and desire when they are in the fire.”

Macci believes Gauff has what many players never develop: emotional stability under pressure, the ability to stay clear-headed in the chaos of big points — a trait that separates champions from contenders.

🎯 From criticism to titles: Gauff grows through adversity
Not long ago, critics questioned whether Gauff’s game — especially her inconsistent serve — might hold her back. Some even suggested she should pause her season to rebuild her technique. Macci completely rejected that idea, stressing that adversity is the training ground of greatness.

Instead of breaking, Gauff responded by rising:

Won the 2025 French Open

Improved her point construction and shot selection

Built a calmer, more composed on-court identity

Earned respect as one of the fiercest competitors of her generation

Her trajectory reinforces Macci’s core point: Gauff learns by competing, not retreating.

💡 The “family factor” Macci says the world underestimates