Peyton Stearns, the 23-year-old American tennis sensation, is making headlines at the Italian Open with an incredible run. Her journey from early-season struggles to reaching her first WTA 1000 semifinal is a testament to her resilience and the impact of her new coach, Blaz Kavcic. **A Social Media Coaching Search:** Stearns' initial success in 2024 under coach Tom Hill culminated in her first WTA title. However, 2025 began with a series of disappointing early exits. After parting ways with Hill, Stearns took an unconventional approach – she announced her coaching search on social media. This bold move not only garnered attention but also ultimately led her to Kavcic. Her humorous tweets and updates showcased her personality and positive attitude during a challenging period. **The Kavcic Effect:** The partnership with Kavcic, a former ATP world No. 68, proved to be transformative. Kavcic, recommended through mutual contacts, brought a fresh perspective and a renewed energy to Stearns' game. Stearns describes Kavcic as someone who is highly dedicated and shares her work ethic, creating a strong synergy between them. The Madrid Open served as a successful trial run, with Stearns quickly confirming Kavcic as her new coach. **On-Court Transformation:** Under Kavcic's guidance, Stearns has shown significant improvement. Her wins over Madison Keys and Naomi Osaka, both major champions, are testaments to her newfound confidence and improved game. She's also displayed a more varied and effective playing style, adapting her game brilliantly to the clay courts despite her limited clay-court experience. Stearns credits Kavcic with helping her fine-tune aspects of her game, particularly in bolstering her mental strength and improving her decision-making in clutch moments. The change in her approach is evident in her ability to win close matches, a struggle in previous tournaments. **A Clay-Court Revelation:** While Stearns primarily honed her skills on hard courts, her performance on clay has been a revelation. Her improved sliding technique and tactical adjustments have allowed her to handle the unique demands of the clay, further underscoring the effectiveness of her collaboration with Kavcic. She's embraced the challenges of the surface, finding a new dimension to her game. **Looking Ahead:** Stearns’ success at the Italian Open is not just a result of a new coach; it reflects her dedication, resilience, and a newfound belief in her capabilities. The impact of Kavcic's coaching is undeniable. As she prepares for her semifinal match, her confidence and determination are palpable. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, highlighting the potential of positive coaching relationships and the power of embracing unconventional approaches to overcome challenges. Her story is one of a player who leveraged social media to her advantage, showcasing a modern approach to finding the right mentor and achieving success.