In a surprising turn of events, Matt Daly has stepped down from his role as Coco Gauff’s head coach amid allegations of tax evasion.
This development has sent shockwaves through the tennis community, especially given the timing—on the eve of the Miami Open 2025.
Matt Daly’s Coaching Tenure with Coco Gauff
Matt Daly, a former collegiate tennis standout from the University of Notre Dame, transitioned into coaching after attempting a professional playing career.
Before joining Gauff’s team, he worked with several ATP players, including a stint with Denis Shapovalov in 2023.
Daly’s expertise in technical aspects of the game, particularly grip modifications, made him a valuable asset to Gauff’s coaching staff.
Gauff announced Daly’s addition to her team in September 2024, shortly after parting ways with Brad Gilbert.
Under Daly’s guidance, Gauff aimed to “reset” and “refresh” her approach, focusing on improving specific areas of her game.
This collaboration yielded immediate results, with Gauff clinching the China Open title and displaying a renewed vigor on the court.
Allegations of Tax Evasion
The allegations against Daly pertain to purported discrepancies in his financial declarations over the past few years.
Sources suggest that these discrepancies involve undeclared earnings from coaching engagements and related activities.
While the specifics remain undisclosed, the gravity of the accusations has prompted Daly to resign to address the matter without detracting from Gauff’s preparations for the Miami Open.
Impact on Coco Gauff and Her Team
Daly’s resignation introduces a significant challenge for Gauff, especially with the Miami Open imminent.
The sudden departure of a head coach can disrupt an athlete’s focus and strategy. However, Gauff’s resilience and adaptability have been hallmarks of her career, suggesting she may navigate this upheaval effectively.
Jean-Christophe Faurel, Gauff’s long-standing coach, is expected to assume a more prominent role during this period.
Faurel’s familiarity with Gauff’s playing style and mental approach could provide the stability needed to maintain her competitive edge.
Reactions from the Tennis Community
The tennis fraternity has expressed a mix of shock and support in response to Daly’s resignation.
Fellow coaches and players acknowledge the seriousness of the allegations but also emphasize the importance of due process.
Many have extended their support to Gauff, recognizing the potential impact on her performance and mental well-being.
Looking Ahead: The Miami Open 2025
The Miami Open 2025 now presents an added layer of complexity for Gauff. Beyond the usual pressures of competing in a high-stakes tournament, she must contend with the recent upheaval in her coaching staff.
Observers and fans alike will be keen to see how this development influences her performance.
In conclusion, Matt Daly’s resignation amid tax evasion allegations marks a tumultuous moment in Coco Gauff’s career.
As the situation unfolds, the tennis world will be watching closely, hopeful that Gauff can maintain her trajectory of success despite the challenges posed by this controversy.
