It takes extraordinary courage to return to the site of heartbreak-and even more to emerge victorious there. For Coco Gauff, the 2025 French Open was not just about lifting a trophy, but about confronting the ghosts of a painful past. Three years after suffering a crushing defeat in her first Grand Slam final at Roland Garros, Gauff came full circle, capturing the title and solidifying her rise as one of the brightest stars in tennis.
In 2022, an 18-year-old Gauff stood on the same red clay, wide-eyed and hopeful, facing a dominant Iga witek, then riding a 34-match win streak. The result was a lopsided 6-1, 6-3 loss. At the time, it seemed like a devastating blow to a young player’s dreams. But Gauff, instead of crumbling, rebuilt.
Memories from the 2023 U.S Open
Her moment of redemption came this year in a thrilling three-set victory over Aryna Sabalenka, who had also been her opponent in the 2023 U.S. Open final. After dropping the first set 6-7, Gauff rallied back with the resilience of a champion, claiming the next two sets 6-2, 6-4. With this win, she became the first American woman to win the French Open singles title since Serena Williams in 2015.
In her post-match press conference, Gauff was quick to acknowledge not only her growth on the court but the internal work that brought her here. “The fighting spirit, I think it’s something that I’ve had naturally,” she said, “but trying to be more positive is something I had to work on.”
Big importance of the mental health for Coco
That mental growth, she revealed, came in part from role models who exemplify resilience and mental fortitude, like gymnastics icon Simone Biles and Olympic hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
“I really look up to Simone Biles and the way she has been able to help mental health in sports,” Gauff said. “Sydney McLaughlin is someone I really like and look up to in that way too. I think she just pushes herself.”
Gauff’s admiration for the two athletes goes beyond their records and accolades.
Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, famously withdrew from several events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to protect her mental well-being-a decision that sparked a global conversation about mental health in elite sports. McLaughlin-Levrone has also been outspoken about the pressures of competition, all while smashing world records in the 400m hurdles and launching a $50 million foundation to support youth sports and mental health initiatives.
All of them united with New Balance
Gauff shares more than just values with these women-she shares a brand. All three are ambassadors for New Balance and have appeared in campaigns together, including the 2023 “Together in Sport” ad. Their support for one another extends across platforms, with mutual appreciation posts and public encouragement.
Gauff, now 21, is carving out her own legacy-one defined not just by talent, but by tenacity. Her journey from heartbreak to triumph in Paris underscores the strength it takes to fail, reflect, and return stronger. Inspired by women who redefined mental toughness, Gauff has now done the same for tennis.
Her victory in Paris is more than a win on clay. It’s a testament to perseverance, a nod to those who inspired her, and a powerful message to the next generation of athletes: Resilience is just as important as skill.
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