Tennis fans have become accustomed to witnessing American champions who dominate the game with aggressive strategies. Pioneering athletes like Serena Williams transformed women’s tennis with their powerful playing styles and unmatched serves, often giving them the upper hand in crucial points. Even those without Williams' 23 Grand Slam titles embody a "strike-first" mentality. As Andre Agassi humorously noted during the French Open broadcast, this approach can be summed up as “Ready, fire, aim.” However, Coco Gauff is now crafting her own narrative within the rich tapestry of American tennis history.
On Saturday, Gauff, a talented 21-year-old hailing from Florida, captured her first French Open title by staging a remarkable comeback against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. After dropping the first set, Gauff rallied to win 6-7 (7-5), 6-2, 6-4, making her the first American champion in Paris—female or male—since Williams in 2015. Reflecting on the match, Gauff acknowledged the challenges: “It was tough. I don’t think either of us were playing great, but I knew as soon as I stepped on the court and I felt that it was windy that it was going to be one of those matches.”
The match was particularly significant given the history between Gauff and Sabalenka. Prior to the French Open, they had faced off 10 times, splitting their encounters evenly with five wins each. One of those matches included the intense 2023 U.S. Open final, which Gauff won. This showdown at Roland Garros marked their most critical meeting yet, being the first No. 1 vs. No. 2 final at the tournament since 2013, when Williams triumphed over Maria Sharapova.
As the match unfolded, Gauff embraced her role as the underdog. Known for her exceptional defensive skills, remarkable footwork, and innate athleticism, she proved to be the perfect counterpoint to Sabalenka's aggressive style. The 27-year-old Belarusian, a three-time Grand Slam champion, is recognized as a formidable offensive player with a powerful game. However, her emotional intensity can lead to frustration, a vulnerability Gauff exploited effectively during their encounters.
When Sabalenka initially took a commanding 4-1, 40-0 lead in the first set, Gauff did not falter. Instead, she fortified her defense, winning three consecutive games and pushing the set to a tiebreak. Despite the reputation of Americans at Roland Garros being less than stellar, Gauff’s extensive training on red clay since the age of 10 showcased her adaptability. She adeptly neutralized Sabalenka’s offensive barrage, often turning the match into a test of endurance.
Despite the occasional rain and strong winds, which heightened Sabalenka's frustration, Gauff maintained a composed demeanor. She countered her opponent's emotional outbursts with strategic play and decisive hitting. Gauff's father, Corey Gauff, effectively summarized their family mindset, stating, “They’re bringing the tiger, so we’re going to have to bring the lion.” This approach emphasized playing a cleaner match and better managing the momentum swings, which ultimately led to Sabalenka's staggering 70 unforced errors.
During the trophy presentation, Gauff expressed gratitude to her parents for their unwavering support, saying they did everything from “washing my clothes to keeping me grounded and giving me the belief that I can do it.” Reflecting on her journey, Gauff admitted that she had once doubted her ability to win the French Open. In her first final appearance in 2022, she faced a crushing defeat against then-No. 1 Iga Swiatek, leaving her in tears. However, the emotions were vastly different this time.
When Sabalenka sent a backhand wide on Gauff’s second match point, Gauff was overcome with disbelief and emotion, covering her mouth in astonishment. By winning her second Grand Slam title not as the aggressor but through relentless defense, Gauff is redefining what it means to be a champion. While offensive-minded players are often labeled as unrelenting, Gauff’s unique style showcases that a different type of champion can emerge in the world of tennis. This victory is a testament to her resilience and adaptability on the court, solidifying her place in the annals of American tennis history.
