The Athletic is providing live coverage of the U.S. Open 2025 at Flushing Meadows, New York. This year marks a special occasion as we witness a remarkable reunion six years in the making between two tennis icons: Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka. Their first encounter was a memorable moment for fans and players alike, taking place in front of 24,000 enthusiastic spectators at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
In a match that many considered unremarkable at the time, a 15-year-old Gauff faced the reigning champion, Osaka, who was then the world No. 1. The match ended in a lopsided score of 6-3, 6-0, but for Gauff, it was a significant learning experience, showcasing the intense pressure of high-stakes tennis. “We had a really special moment here that a lot of people remember,” Osaka reflected after her victory over Daria Kasatkina, signaling that this year would see their paths cross once again.
Back in 2019, Gauff was still emerging as a tennis prodigy, and her parents and coaches donned shirts emblazoned with “Call me Coco.” Despite the hype surrounding her, the match was a tough night for Gauff, who admitted to feeling overwhelmed by expectations. “I remember it was a tough moment for me,” Gauff said, recalling the pressure she felt during her debut. “I put way too much pressure on myself thinking I maybe had a chance to actually do something.”
As Gauff struggled to cope with the weight of expectation, tears welled up during changeovers, a relatable moment for any young athlete feeling the strain of a public defeat. The match concluded with Osaka dominating, but what followed was a poignant exchange that made the match unforgettable. Mary Joe Fernández, a former pro and commentator, recalled how Osaka approached Gauff at the net, offering words of encouragement and inviting her to join in a post-match interview.
“I realized I was going to be doing a dual interview,” Fernández noted, a rare occurrence that highlighted the camaraderie and support between the two athletes. Gauff and Osaka's conversation showcased not only their mutual respect but also the emotional weight of the moment. As they walked to the microphones together, the crowd erupted in applause, further stirring Gauff's emotions.
During the interview, Gauff expressed her admiration for Osaka, stating, “I don’t want people to think that I’m trying to take this moment away from her, because she really deserves it, so thank you.” This sentiment encapsulated their relationship: a blend of rivalry and respect, with both players navigating the challenges of being young athletes in the spotlight.
Fast forward six years, and the dynamics have shifted significantly. Gauff, now a two-time Grand Slam champion and the world’s highest-paid female athlete at just 21, has become a dominant force in the sport. Her image lights up billboards across the tournament grounds, marking her ascent in the tennis world.
Conversely, Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion at 27, is on her journey back to the top after taking a break to prioritize her well-being and motherhood. Despite her hiatus, she retains a magnetic presence in the sport, and her recent performances suggest she is regaining her form and aiming to reclaim her status as a top competitor.
While Gauff and Osaka may not be close friends, Gauff remains a strong supporter of Osaka, appreciating the trailblazing role she has played as a Black female athlete. Both players have been vocal about social issues, particularly during the summer of 2020, and their mutual admiration continues to grow.
As they prepare to face each other again, the question lingers: how much have they truly changed? Both players have evolved in their careers and personal lives, yet their shared experiences as young athletes navigating the complexities of fame and competition bind them in an unspoken way.
On the eve of their highly anticipated rematch, both Gauff and Osaka are poised to create another unforgettable chapter in their tennis journey. Their upcoming clash at the U.S. Open 2025 is not just a match; it's a continuation of a story that began with a poignant moment six years ago, filled with promise, growth, and resilience.
