Coco Gauff, the 21-year-old American tennis sensation, walked off the clay courts of Madrid’s Caja Magica on May 3, 2025, with her head held high, even after falling short in the Madrid Open final against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. The gripping 3-6, 6-7(3) defeat marked Gauff’s first individual final of the 2025 season, a milestone that sparked pride in the young star and drew a heartfelt one-word reaction from her close friend, Jalen Sera: “Proud.” The Atlanta-based musician’s succinct comment on Gauff’s Instagram post encapsulated the admiration felt by her inner circle and fans alike, as she transformed heartbreak into motivation.
The Madrid Open final was a clash of titans, with Gauff facing Sabalenka in their 10th career meeting. Gauff, ranked No. 4, had momentum after a stunning 6-1, 6-1 semifinal rout of defending champion Iga Swiatek, her first clay victory over the Pole. Against Sabalenka, Gauff fought valiantly, claiming the first set 6-3 with aggressive net play and precise serves. The second set was a rollercoaster, pushing to a tiebreak where Sabalenka’s experience edged out Gauff’s tenacity, sealing a 7-6(3) victory. Despite the loss, Gauff’s performance showcased her growth on clay, a surface where she reached the 2022 Roland Garros final. “I was aggressive and played with margin,” she had said after her Swiatek win, a mentality that carried into the final.
In the aftermath, Gauff took to Instagram, radiating positivity. “Thank you Madrid❤️ Not the outcome I was hoping for today but a lot to be proud of. leaving here with my head up and more motivation to work even harder to do better next time🙏🏾 #Godstiming,” she wrote. Sera’s “Proud” comment echoed her sentiment, a testament to their close bond. The rising actor and guitarist, known for roles in short films like Troll (2023), has been a steadfast supporter, often engaging with Gauff’s posts with playful banter or heartfelt encouragement. Their friendship, rooted in shared Atlanta ties, has blossomed into a source of mutual inspiration, with Sera celebrating Gauff’s milestones, from her 2023 US Open title to her 2024 WTA Finals triumph.
Gauff’s runner-up speech was equally uplifting, blending gratitude with her deeply spiritual side. “I’d like to thank my lord and savior Jesus Christ to be here and the opportunity to play in the final,” she said, before congratulating Sabalenka. “You’re always tough to face. Congrats to your team. The last four straight finals. Congrats on all the success you’ve been having.” Her graciousness underscored her maturity, especially as the loss meant she missed the chance to overtake Swiatek as world No. 2, instead climbing to No. 3. Yet, Gauff’s focus remained forward-looking, her words reflecting a belief in “God’s timing” and a resolve to improve.
The Madrid campaign was a high point in Gauff’s 2025 season, which began with a United Cup title but saw setbacks in Doha, Dubai, and Miami. Her clay season, however, signaled a resurgence. She breezed past Olympic champion Belinda Bencic and outlasted Mirra Andreeva in Madrid, saving two set points to reach the semifinals. “I think I have the belief now that I’m one of the best players in the world,” Gauff said after defeating Swiatek in the United Cup final, a confidence evident in Madrid. Her run, which included 19 of 21 first-serve points won against Swiatek, has positioned her as a French Open contender.
Off the court, Gauff’s charisma shines through her bond with Sera, whose support extends to celebrating her off-court ventures, like her New Balance-Miu Miu collaboration for the Italian Open. Their playful exchanges—Sera dubbing her “IT GIRL” after her WTA Finals win—add a lighthearted dimension to Gauff’s intense career. As she prepares for the Italian Open, Gauff carries the lessons of Madrid, her pride undimmed, and Sera’s one-word affirmation ringing true.
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