Kim Clijsters Offers Serving Advice to Struggling Coco Gauff

Former World No. 1 shares insights to help Gauff overcome double fault issues ahead of Indian Wells tournament.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 12:25am

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Former tennis star Kim Clijsters has provided Coco Gauff with crucial advice to address the young American's persistent serving struggles, particularly her high rate of double faults. Clijsters, a four-time Grand Slam champion, emphasized the importance of simplifying Gauff's approach and focusing on mental clarity during serves. With Gauff set to compete at the upcoming Indian Wells Open, Clijsters' guidance aims to help the 21-year-old regain confidence and consistency on her serve.

Why it matters

Coco Gauff's serving difficulties have been a significant obstacle throughout her career, with the player committing a WTA Tour-high 431 double faults last season. Addressing this issue is crucial for Gauff's continued development and success, especially as she prepares for high-pressure matches at major tournaments like Indian Wells.

The details

Kim Clijsters, a former world No. 1 player, recently shared her insights on her 'Love All' podcast, advising Gauff to simplify her approach and focus on mental clarity during serves. Clijsters, who won four Grand Slam titles and held the top ranking for 20 weeks, emphasized the importance of visualization and maintaining composure, even when facing frustration. Gauff's serving struggles were particularly evident during the Dubai Open semifinals, where she committed 12 double faults against Elina Svitolina.

  • Coco Gauff is preparing for the Indian Wells Open, which is scheduled to take place from March 4 to 15.
  • Last season, Gauff committed a WTA Tour-high 431 double faults.

The players

Coco Gauff

A 21-year-old American tennis player who has struggled with a high rate of double faults throughout her career.

Kim Clijsters

A former world No. 1 tennis player who won four Grand Slam titles and held the top ranking for 20 weeks, providing Gauff with serving advice based on her own successful career.

Gavin MacMillan

A biomechanics expert who joined Gauff's coaching team in 2025 to help address her serving issues.

Elina Svitolina

A professional tennis player who faced Gauff in the semifinals of the Dubai Open, where Gauff committed 12 double faults.

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What they’re saying

“I always loved aiming at targets. I used to visualise targets during my match, even when they weren't there, and that really helped me a lot as well. So, you know, there's a lot of things that they can do, but, you know, sometimes less is more. I think, especially in this situation, there are so many people, and we're talking about it too, right? Like, there are so many people talking about it. And so I think sometimes in her situation, less is more.”

— Kim Clijsters, Former World No. 1 tennis player

“We saw her get frustrated, which is totally fine, and I get the frustration, the disappointment in herself, in the serve. I totally get it, but it's going to take time, and I think she's going to keep having to put the time into it and the hours and a lot of times when it is that mental side of it, that is something that you can't practice, right?”

— Kim Clijsters, Former World No. 1 tennis player

What’s next

Coco Gauff will have the opportunity to apply Clijsters' advice at the upcoming Indian Wells Open, which is scheduled to take place from March 4 to 15.

The takeaway

Coco Gauff's serving struggles have been a persistent issue throughout her career, and addressing the mental aspects of her game may prove crucial in overcoming this challenge. Kim Clijsters' firsthand experience and guidance offer a promising path forward for the young player as she prepares for high-stakes tournaments like Indian Wells.