Coco Gauff has fond memories of playing in Auckland but she has opted not to play in the latest edition of the tournament.
The world No.3 has won the previous two editions of the tournament, beating Rebeka Masarova in the 2023 final and then Elina Svitolina in the 2024 title match. Auckland is the only WTA event that Gauff has managed to win in consecutive years so far in her career.
However, the American has opted to start her next season at the United Cup which she says gives her the chance of playing against a higher level of opponent and being in a team. Iga Swiatek, Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina are also playing in the event. In comparison, Auckland’s highest-ranked entry is the world No.21 Madison Keys.
“I love Auckland. I won twice there. It was a great tournament,” said Gauff.
“For me I wanted to play a higher level of competition and also a team competition. I had a lot of fun with the Paris Olympics. The season’s already so much by ourselves that it’s nice to mix it up.
“I think for all of us the main focus is the Australian Open and doing well there.”
Gauff is hoping to continue the momentum she gained at the end of the 2024 season which saw her win the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. In the United Cup, she will be joined by teammate Taylor Fritz who was part of the American team that won the inaugural title in 2023. Their opening tie will be against Canada.
“We’re all pumped up to play Canada or whoever. I think we all want to win,” said Gauff.
“It’s not an easy start to the first match of the year, playing Leylah (Fernandez) and Felix (Auger-Aliassime).
“But we’re up, ready for it. We all want a couple of good matches to start off the year.”
America will also play Croatia in the group stages.
