Coco Gauff has kicked off her campaign at the 2026 BNP Paribas Open with a hard-fought victory over Kamilla Rakhimova in the second round. Despite battling tricky windy conditions and falling behind in the second set, the 21-year-old bounced back strongly to claim a 6-3, 7-6(5) triumph. Following the clash, she shared her candid thoughts about fellow Americans Jessica Pegula and Iva Jovic, shedding light on her dynamic with both players.
What Did Coco Gauff Say About Jessica Pegula and Iva Jovic?
While speaking to the press at Indian Wells, Coco Gauff praised Iva Jovic’s breakthrough and predicted that the 18-year-old would continue to trouble other players on tour with her well-rounded game. She also spoke warmly about the rising star’s off-court personality.
“Yeah, Iva is obviously doing great. I think she’s a very solid player and is definitely going to continue to do damage on tour, for sure. Very nice girl off court too,” Gauff said.
Gauff then lauded her close friend Jessica Pegula for continuing to improve with age. The American said she found it inspiring to watch the 32-year-old reach new heights on tour, adding that she hoped to enjoy similar success later in her career.
“And obviously Jess, someone I know pretty well. Yeah, I think she just keeps getting better. You know, I think it’s very great to see, like, someone maybe at her age, like, continuing to peak. Honestly, gives me a lot of inspiration too just knowing, I hope I can have a career as good as hers when I’m later in, down the road,” she said.
The 21-year-old went on to commend Pegula for her remarkable run to the Dubai Tennis Championships title, especially highlighting her 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 comeback win over Amanda Anisimova in the semifinals.
“But no, I think what Jess did in Dubai was pretty incredible, especially that match against Amanda. She kind of looked like she was out of it and was able to come back and win that. Yeah, I think, you know, both of them are great people off the court too, so they’re easy to root for. I think that’s why fans seem to support them a lot too,” she added.
Coco Gauff Books Her Spot in Indian Wells 3R While Iva Jovic Crashes Out
Coco Gauff has advanced to the third round of the BNP Paribas Open after emerging victorious against Kamilla Rakhimova. Up next, the No. 4 seed will battle it out against the winner between Alexandra Eala and Dayana Yastremska, with a spot in the Round of 16 on the line.
Iva Jovic, meanwhile, has exited the WTA 1000 event after suffering a 4-6, 7-6(4), 6-3 loss to Camila Osorio in her opening match. On the other hand, Jessica Pegula is yet to commence her campaign at Indian Wells. Following a first-round bye, the fifth seed will be up against Donna Vekić in the second round.
