Coco Gauff Aims for French Open Glory After Strong Comeback

PARIS, France — Coco Gauff is entering the French Open with confidence, having just reached the finals of the Italian Open. Despite losing the title match to Jasmine Paolini, Gauff has climbed to the second spot in the women’s tennis rankings.

The 21-year-old American is the second seed in Paris and is set to face Olivia Gadecki in the opening round. Gauff’s best finish at the French Open was as a runner-up in 2022 when she lost to Iga Swiatek.

Before the tournament, fellow American Venus Williams shared her thoughts on Gauff’s potential. Speaking on TNT Sports, Williams said, “I am a big fan of the Americans, always rooting for them. Coco, I am a huge fan. I love her passion. I think sometimes she is too hard on herself. I think she has just got to let go and allow herself to do what she can do.”

Gauff’s incredible journey includes a Grand Slam victory at the 2023 US Open. Though she faces pressure, her determination is evident. “She has such big expectations of herself so I would love to see her win here,” Williams added.

Earlier this week, Gauff began her campaign with an impressive 6-2, 6-2 win against Gadecki. She is now focused on her next match against Tereza Valentova.

While promoting women’s tennis, Gauff recently participated in a discussion on her ‘Mount Rushmore’ of American players with former pro John Isner, highlighting legends like Serena Williams and Billie Jean King. “Serena has to go up there. I feel like Billie just because of the impact she left on the game,” she remarked.

With 2025 still young, Gauff is eager for more titles, stating, “At least win a few more slams. At least double digits for slams, for sure!”