Coco Gauff gives Paris 2024 verdict after mixed Olympics campaign
Coco Gauff revealed that her Olympic was “positive” and set her sights on future Games – despite a disappointing run in Paris.
World No 2 Gauff was among the leading contenders in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles at Paris 2024 – one of the few players to compete in all three disciplines.
And she was also handed the honour of being the Team USA flagbearer at the opening ceremony on her Olympic debut, after missing Tokyo 2020 with COVID.
However, the 20-year-old had a difficult time on court throughout the event.
The American was beaten in round three of her singles campaign by eventual silver medallist Donna Vekic, clashing with the umpire over a contentious line call midway through the second set.
She and Jessica Pegula fell in round two of the women’s doubles, while she also lost alongside Taylor Fritz in the last eight of the mixed event.
However, Gauff is not reflecting on any potential disappointment – and is looking towards her home Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.
“I didn’t really experience the full effect of the early defeat in singles,” said Gauff.
“At the time I don’t think I even plunged into great sadness, so I would compete in all three disciplines again in 2028 if that were a possibility.
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“In four years, I’ll be 24, so I’ll still be healthy and young, especially if the mixed doubles draw is so small.
“I feel like it’s something everyone wants to play and I had a great experience. From not being able to go to Tokyo to going to Paris, in Los Angeles, I hope to step onto the podium.
“I feel that’s what life is about, having a disappointing result and the next time being the best in the world. I’m trying to learn from this experience and overall, it has been positive. I would do it again, even if I lost in the first round.
“It was amazing, being the flag bearer was something I wouldn’t have expected and meeting all the amazing people I met. Every Olympics I qualify for, I will definitely play unless I’m injured.”
Gauff be back in action at the Canadian Open in Toronto this week, with the American the top seed in the draw and among the title favourites amid a depleted field.
However, with a quick turnaround from Paris, she is keeping her expectations at a minimum.
She added: “I have no expectations for this week. I’m not coming here with expectations to win or anything.
“Of course, it would be great, that’s the goal, but I’m realistic. I was playing on clay until three days ago, so yes, I think overall I’m trying to see where I stand and what I need to do to prepare for the US Open.”
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