Coco Gauff Faces Coach Travel Crisis Amidst Middle East Conflict Before Indian Wells

Last Updated:March 04, 2026, 14:00 IST

Coco Gauff's coach is stuck in the Middle East because of the US-Israel-Iran conflict, impacting her Indian Wells prep.

Two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff has said that her coach is stuck in the Middle East currently and they have no update as to when he can fly back for her matches at the Indian Wells, with the 21-year-old all set to begin her campaign at the prestigious tournament on Friday.

At her pre-tournament press conference, Gauff was asked about the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict and her thoughts on the situation in the Middle East. She responded by revealing that her coach is stuck in the region, though she didn’t disclose his exact location.

Gauff admitted that she is uncertain whether MacMillan will be able to leave the Middle East in time for Indian Wells. She added that she remains hopeful about his safety and said that they are staying in contact daily.

“My coach, Gavin, is actually there right now; he is currently stuck and I don’t know if he is going to make it. I just want him to be safe. I don’t know when he can leave and things like that," Gauff said.

The 21-year-old addressed the broader crisis as well, describing it as ‘unfortunate’. In a heartfelt message, Gauff extended her thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by the conflict.

“Yeah, I mean, I guess, first off, what is happening is unfortunate and my thoughts and prayers are out there for everyone affected, innocent lives being taken. I think there is a lot of unnecessary violence going on," Gauff said.

“As for the Middle East, I have never personally felt unsafe there, playing tournaments or anything like that. I have never felt unsafe. I think what is happening now, I guess people, maybe political experts could see it coming, but I think as far as a tennis player, no one would expect things to happen," Gauff added.

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