Coco Gauff, the reigning champion of the ASB Classic, has opted out of defending her title at the WTA 250 tournament in Auckland, New Zealand, instead choosing to represent Team USA at the United Cup in Perth, Australia.
The decision marks a notable shift in Gauff’s early 2024 season strategy, as she prioritizes team competition over the event she has dominated for two consecutive years.
Gauff first claimed the ASB Classic crown in 2023, defeating Rebeka Masarova, and successfully defended her title this year with a win against Elina Svitolina.
“I love Auckland. I won twice there. It was a great tournament,” Gauff, 20, shared. “But for me, I wanted to play a higher level of competition and also a team competition. I had so much fun with the Paris Olympics, and the season’s already so much playing by ourselves that it’s nice to mix it up.”
The United Cup, a mixed-gender team event, provides Gauff an opportunity to prepare for the Australian Open alongside top players like Taylor Fritz, Danielle Collins, and Robert Galloway.
Emma Raducanu Set for WTA Return
While Gauff’s absence is a setback for the ASB Classic, the tournament will welcome former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu, who is making her WTA Tour comeback.
Raducanu, 22, has faced a challenging two years due to injuries, including an ankle issue that sidelined her after the Korea Open in September.
The British star, currently ranked No. 58, recently shared updates on her recovery and has officially joined the Auckland participant list.
She is expected to be the seventh seed in a draw featuring Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka, Sloane Stephens, and Sofia Kenin.
With Raducanu’s return and a star-studded lineup, the ASB Classic promises exciting matchups, even as it moves forward without its two-time defending champion.
Meanwhile, Gauff’s decision to join the United Cup highlights her focus on team dynamics and preparation for the year’s first Grand Slam.
