Coco Gauff gives APT response to critics on why training during London heatwave won't be a challenge for her ahead of Wimbledon 2026

Coco Gauff has shared her thoughts on training in the intense London heat as she prepares for the 2026 Wimbledon Championships. The American star is currently in the British capital ahead of the season’s third Grand Slam.

Despite difficult weather conditions across Europe, Gauff believes the heat on court has not been a major challenge for her because she grew up playing tennis in Florida, where high temperatures are common throughout much of the year.The former Grand Slam champion arrives at Wimbledon looking to bounce back from a disappointing run at the Berlin Open. Her campaign in Germany ended in the second round after a defeat to former World No.

2 Paula Badosa. As one of the leading names in women’s tennis, Gauff will now focus on improving her record at Wimbledon and putting together a strong performance on the grass courts of the All England Club.

Coco Gauff discusses London heatwave before Wimbledon challenge

Speaking at a New Balance and Miu Miu event in London, Gauff explained that competing in hot conditions does not bother her too much because of her background in Florida. She said that the temperatures feel manageable while practicing and playing tennis.

However, she admitted that dealing with the heat away from the courts has been far more difficult.

Gauff noted that many places in London do not have air-conditioning. Which makes everyday activities uncomfortable during the ongoing heatwave. According to weather forecasts, temperatures in London are expected to reach around 37°C. This has prompted authorities to issue warnings about extreme heat conditions.The American will also be eager to erase memories of her disappointing Wimbledon campaign last year. At the 2025 Championships, she entered the tournament as one of the favorites. This was following her strong performances earlier in the season. Expectations were high after her success at the French Open, but her journey ended unexpectedly in the opening round.Gauff suffered a straight-sets defeat to Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska, one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.

Reflecting on that loss, she admitted she was unhappy with her performance and felt she could have handled key moments better, especially during the opening-set tiebreak.The 22-year-old remains one of the most dangerous players on the WTA Tour. Notably, Wimbledon has not yet produced her best Grand Slam results. She has reached the fourth round on three occasions, in 2019, 2021, and 2024. This year, Gauff will hope to go even further for her first Wimbledon title.