Gauff is ready to improve her serve in Rome

And the reigning US Open champion said she plans to resolve this delivery issue in Rome before heading to Roland Garros from May 26.

“I had about 14 double faults – that’s four or five games,” she said. “(If I) just fix this detail, it will save me.”

“Maybe these games would result in winning in straight sets instead of losing in three sets.”

She added: “For me it’s just a better serve than last week. Honestly, I feel like the other parts of my game are improving in the right direction.”

“If I do it, I’ll be prepared for a very good Roland Garros.”

Both Gauff and defending champion Elena Rybakina expressed their joy about returning to the Foro Italico and preparing for the last big event before Paris.

“It’s nice to be here. (I have seen) some improvements on the ground,” the Kazakh said. “I am looking forward to this event.

“I didn’t train for three or four days (after a semi-final loss in Madrid against Aryna Sabalenka). Today I managed to score a bit.”

“This is the way to move forward because it’s not easy with our schedule.”

Gauff paid tribute to Rafael Nadal, who will likely play his final event in Rome as he nears retirement at some point this season.

“When I saw the little (farewell) ceremony (in Madrid for Nadal), I thought: ‘This is real life, this is real.’

“I am a little bit sad; he is definitely one of my favorite players. I admire his mentality, his intensity.”

“When I train next to him on the court, I literally leave my training to watch him,” the American continued.

“It’s because of him and his aura and the intensity. Also in the grace he shows. He’s a very nice person.”

“His legacy will be unique in the intensity with which he approaches everything.”

“This is something that will be missed by the players and the fans.”