Sky Sports' Jonathan Overend is backing Coco Gauff to connect the dots and challenge for the Australian Open title. The world No. 3 begins her campaign against Kamilla Rakhimova, carrying momentum from a French Open win and a strong United Cup performance. However, her technical issues with the second serve and forehand remain under the microscope.

Gauff, 21, has hired biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan to address her consistency problems, which include leading the tour in double faults. Overend believes it's a matter of 'when, not if' she solves these weaknesses, calling her future potential 'frightening' if she does. The American aims to become a consistent challenger to Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.

A potential second-round clash with Venus Williams adds a nostalgic layer, given Gauff's famous 2019 Wimbledon victory over her. While Overend identifies Wimbledon as her biggest challenge due to court speed, he sees a deep run in Melbourne as very possible. Gauff's ultimate goal is to touch the No. 1 ranking and complete a career Grand Slam.