Wimbledon: ‘Very tough for me’ – Coco Gauff explains being ‘a little emotional’ after opening victory on Centre Court – Eurosport

Coco Gauff was left feeling “really happy” with her victory over her friend, Caroline Dolehide, in the first round of Wimbledon on Monday, and she explained that it also held additional meaning.

However, the American managed to turn that sudden exit at SW19 into a positive as she took the opportunity to reshape our support team, including hiring legendary coach Brad Gilbert.

Since then, she clinched her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open and has produced consistently excellent results.

After the No. 2 seed defeated Dolehide 6-1 6-2 in Monday’s final match on Centre Court, she told the crowd in her on-court interview how she felt extra significance to returning to the Grand Slam with a win.

“I’m really happy with how I played today,” she said. “It’s always tough playing a friend like Caroline, and I’m really happy I was able to get through today.

“Last year, I lost in the first round, and it was very tough for me, that’s why I am a little emotional and that’s why I was happy to turn it around.

“Wimbledon is the place – not where the dream started, but where I believed that the dream was possible.

“I’ve played on a lot of big courts, but every time I play here I feel even more nervous – even more than in a Grand Slam final.

“There is something about Centre Court that’s so special. It’s an honour playing here, and I don’t take it for granted.”

In the second round, Gauff will take on qualifier Anca Todoni as she seeks to progress towards a fourth-straight Grand Slam semi-final appearance.