Tennis is fast approaching its final grand slam for the year—the US Open. With just a week to go, the anticipation is electric, not just among the fans, but for the players too. The buzz is everywhere, from social media to locker rooms, as everyone gears up for the last Grand Slam of the season. Amidst this excitement, though, there’s a collective sigh of relief, especially from Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz. Why, you ask? It’s all about the courts.

Both Gauff and Alcaraz faced major heartbreak at the Cincinnati Open this year and were ousted from their respective opening matches. One major reason for their defeat was attributed to the speed of the court in the tournament. For the unversed, the Court Pace index value at the Cincinnati Masters increased from 34.6 in 2023 to 42.5 in the current season. While these figures were from the Grandstand, other courts, including the Centre Court, also demonstrated similar changes. Now, with the US Open fast approaching, the condition was expected to be similar.

The tennis corridors were resonating with the rumors of similar court conditions at the US Open as well. This would mean that Alcaraz and Gauff had to struggle more to add another title at Flushing Meadows to their name. But, they can finally take a sigh of relief, thanks to Lindsay Davenport.

The former American tennis player spoke on Tennis Channel and highlighted the speed of the courts at the US Open. She revealed that the courts were playing slower than the ones in the Cincinnati Masters. The news was also echoed by tennis commentator and Journalist Jose Morgado on his X account. Taking to the platform, Morgado wrote, “Heard that from a couple of players that are playing the Qualies this week. They say the courts are NOT fast at all.” Remember, Alcaraz had admitted earlier that he faced extreme challenges on the fast-paced hard courts. 

In the post-match presser, Alcaraz reflected upon where he faltered against Gael Monfils. “Probably, it felt like it was another sport playing on the Center court than the other, other courts. The balls were faster on the, on the center court, bouncing much, much more than other court.” But with the latest updates coming in regarding the pace of the courts, the Spaniard definitely has a sigh of relief to take. Gauff, meanwhile, is anticipating to make a vehement return ahead of the mega event.

Coco Gauff reveals plan ahead of the US Open

Coco Gauff has failed to keep momentum on the hard courts as compared to last year. The reigning US Open winner had a struggling season, and other than the French Open doubles title, she has failed to achieve significantly. But with the US Open around the corner, the star player is prepared to play some intense game.

After suffering a massive blow against Kazakh star Yulia Putinsteva, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 Gauff revealed her plans for the US Open. “I feel like I have to work on consistency, overall,” said Gauff. Remember, the star player dropped one spot to world number three after her defeat. Continuing further in the interview with WTA Tour she said, “I’ll probably go home and try to reset.” But despite the recent failures, Gauff looks quite motivated for the Grand Slam.  

“Obviously, I have a lot coming up soon with the US Open, so I think just trying to reset and be ready for that.” To add to her motivation, the speed of the hard courts has surely come as relief. Will Gauff and Alcaraz eventually benefit from the likely reduced speed of the courts? Only time will tell.