World number four Coco Gauff has revealed she struggles with impostor syndrome, despite securing her place in the Miami Open semi-finals for the first time.
The 22-year-old defeated Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic 6-3 1-6 6-3 on Tuesday, marking a significant breakthrough in the tournament.
The victory sees Gauff advance to the last four after six previous attempts failed to progress beyond the fourth round. Her achievement also makes her the youngest American woman to reach the Miami singles semi-finals since tennis icon Serena Williams in 2004.
Speaking to reporters, Gauff candidly shared her feelings.
“I think sometimes I can get impostor syndrome,” she admitted. “Even when they are saying my accomplishments when I walk on or during the warm-up, it doesn’t feel like me and I’m like, ‘Oh, actually, you do have a good career’.
“But it doesn’t feel like that sometimes. When you’re working on things, and especially with my serve, it just feels like I shouldn’t be where I am. But tennis doesn’t lie, the ball doesn’t lie, so I just have to believe in myself.”
The two-time Grand Slam champion noted that her coach has been focused on helping her build confidence.
“At moments, I believe in it, and other moments, I don’t. I’m just trying to believe in it more,” she added.
Gauff is now set to face Czech Karolina Muchova in the semi-finals on Thursday, having won all five of their previous encounters.
Meanwhile, the other two women’s semi-final spots will be confirmed later today following the remaining quarter-finals.
The first last-eight contest will see Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina take on home favourite Jessica Pegula.
Top seed Aryna Sabalenka will then take to the court later on Wednesday when she faces another US player, Hailey Baptiste.
Sabalenka is looking to add another title to her collection after winning at Indian Wells earlier this month.
