Coco Gauff says her views on becoming world No.1 are shaped by following Serena Williams’ career, adding that players are better remembered for winning slams and not topping the rankings.
The American is one of four women who could exit the New York major as world No.1. The position is currently held by Aryna Sabalenka, who must defend her US Open title and hope that Elena Rybakina loses before the semi-finals to keep her position. It is the same scenario for Gauff, as well as Jessica Pegula, if they want to become world No.1 for the first time.
“I never thought about being No. 1,” Gauff said after beating Paula Badosa 6-4, 7-6(5) in the second round.
“Growing up and watching Serena play, she was not playing so many tournaments, it was very clear she was focused on the Slams.
“Growing up watching her play, I just had that mentality. Yes, it would be cool to be No. 1 but it’s not something that I’ve thought about, to be honest.
“I definitely care but I don’t think it’s something I’ll be nervous about. If it happens, great. If not, no.”
Williams, who is playing in the doubles tournament alongside sister Venus, won 23 Grand Slam titles during her career. She also spent 319 weeks as world No.1, which is the third-longest period in WTA rankings history. Only Martina Navratilova and Steffi Graf have held the position for longer.
“I’m just focused on winning Slams, because at the end of the day that’s what people talk about more in your career than being the No. 1. If you win the Slams, rankings will come,” Gauff commented.
Looking at the wider picture, the 22-year-old adds that the No.1 race between her and others adds an extra layer of interest for fans.
“It creates added stakes, makes it interesting for the fans,” she said.
“As for me, I didn’t know I was in contention until someone mentioned it to me in Cincinnati, or maybe here (at the US Open), I don’t remember. I’m not looking at the rankings.”
Gauff currently has 22 match wins at the US Open. She will next play Cristina Bucsa.
