Image Source: The New York Times
Coco Gauff experienced a tough start at the Qatar Open on February 10, 2026, ultimately losing her opening match to Elisabetta Cocciaretto. This setback in Doha marked another disappointing chapter in Gauff’s early season as her ongoing struggles with her forehand came to the forefront. Fans and analysts following tennis scores today noted the numerous unforced errors that colored her game.
In this match, Gauff, ranked fifth in the world, succumbed to a 6-4, 6-2 defeat against Cocciaretto, who currently holds the No. 57 spot. Despite having defeated the Italian in their previous encounters, Gauff’s inability to consistently harness her forehand proved costly. After the match, she expressed frustration, stating, “I just feel like some of the things I’ve been working on in practice aren’t translating to the match court.”
Gauff’s Forehand Struggles Resurface
Throughout her career, Gauff has demonstrated remarkable talent and potential, known for her aggressive playing style. Nevertheless, her forehand, a key weapon in her arsenal, has become a recurring issue this season. In yesterday’s match, Gauff’s forehand displayed an array of faults—some were overly aggressive and strayed far from the court, while others simply lacked the depth necessary to pressure her opponent.
The slow hard court conditions in Doha favored Cocciaretto’s strategy as Gauff struggled to establish her rhythm. As the match progressed, errors piled up, contributing to Gauff’s total of 39 unforced errors against just 13 winners—a statistic that illustrates her difficulties in converting opportunities.
Analyzing the Match Dynamics
Despite finding herself down 5-2 in the second set, Gauff attempted to rally back, showcasing her typical ferocity by attacking short balls. However, although she pushed Cocciaretto back occasionally, her lack of consistency ultimately led to her downfall. Cocciaretto capitalized on Gauff’s errors, displaying solid composure under pressure.
As this match unfolds, fans are left wondering how Gauff will approach the upcoming tournaments. The prospect of remodelling her forehand presents a complex challenge, one that may require her to step away from competitive play temporarily. The importance of maintaining her ranking—essential for vital points and prize money—might complicate her decision.
The Future Ahead
Looking forward, Gauff holds an impressive history as a two-time Grand Slam champion and a top-five player at just 21 years old. Despite the early-season setbacks and the pressing issues surrounding her forehand, she has ample time to refine her skills. Decisions about her training and competitive schedule will be crucial in the next phases of her career.
As she contemplates her challenges, many fans are eager to see how Gauff will adapt at future tournaments, hoping to witness a turnaround that restores her confidence and competitive edge. The stakes are particularly high as she continues to strive for excellence on the WTA tour, with the tennis scores today serving as a barometer of her performance.
Conclusion
Coco Gauff’s journey in the Qatar Open epitomizes the unpredictable nature of competitive tennis, where even the best players face hurdles. As the season progresses, her fans remain hopeful for significant improvements in her game, particularly regarding her forehand. Watching how she navigates these challenges will undoubtedly captivate the tennis community.
FAQ
What were the scores in Coco Gauff’s match at the Qatar Open?
Coco Gauff lost to Elisabetta Cocciaretto with scores of 6-4, 6-2.
How many unforced errors did Coco Gauff have in her match?
Gauff committed a total of 39 unforced errors during the match.
What does Gauff need to improve on moving forward?
Gauff needs to work on her forehand consistency, as it has been a significant issue in her recent matches.
What is Coco Gauff’s current world ranking?
As of now, Coco Gauff is ranked No. 5 in the world.
Who did Gauff face in her Qatar Open match?
Coco Gauff faced Elisabetta Cocciaretto in her opening match.
