In the wake of a stunning early exit from Wimbledon 2025, tennis sensation Coco Gauff has turned to an unexpected source of comfort: Justin Bieber’s newly released album, *Swag*. The 21-year-old American star, fresh off a heartbreaking first-round loss at the prestigious Grand Slam, has been unwinding by immersing herself in the pop icon’s latest musical offering, which dropped on July 11, 2025. Gauff’s candid admission of being “hooked” on the album reveals a relatable side of the athlete as she navigates the emotional turbulence of a challenging season.
Gauff, the reigning French Open champion, entered Wimbledon as a heavy favorite, riding the momentum of her clay court triumph earlier in the year. However, her campaign at the All England Club came to an abrupt halt when she fell to Dayana Yastremska in straight sets during the opening round. The defeat marked Gauff’s second consecutive first-round loss, following a similar upset at the Berlin Open. “I’m still struggling to accept it,” Gauff admitted, her voice heavy with the weight of disappointment. The young star, who made history as the first American teenager to win the US Open since Serena Williams in 1999, was visibly devastated, her dreams of capturing a third Grand Slam title dashed on the grass courts of Wimbledon.
Amid this professional setback, Gauff has found solace in music, specifically Bieber’s *Swag*, a 21-track album that marks the Canadian pop star’s first full-length release since 2021’s *Justice*. The surprise drop, announced through cryptic billboards in cities like Reykjavik, Los Angeles, and New York, has taken the music world by storm. For Gauff, the album’s blend of nostalgic R&B, modern pop, and introspective lyrics has provided a much-needed escape. “I’ve been listening to *Swag* on repeat,” she shared, a hint of a smile breaking through her post-match reflections. “It’s just got this vibe that pulls you in, you know? It’s helping me process everything.”
Bieber’s *Swag* is more than just a catchy title; it’s a bold reclamation of the term the singer once declared “dead” back in 2013. The album, inspired by his journey as a husband and father to his 10-month-old son, Jack Blues, features collaborations with artists like Gunna, Sexyy Red, Cash Cobain, and indie darlings Mk.gee and Dijon. Tracks like “Daisies” and “Therapy Session” delve into Bieber’s personal struggles, including rumored marital challenges with his wife, Hailey, and the pressures of fame. In “Therapy Session,” Bieber opens up to comedian Druski, confessing, “I think that’s been a tough thing for me recently is feeling like, you know, I have had to go through a lot of my struggles as a human, as all of us do, really publicly.” The album’s closing track, “Forgiveness,” a gospel-infused cover performed by Marvin Winans, adds a spiritual layer to the project, resonating with listeners seeking depth and authenticity.
For Gauff, the album’s emotional resonance seems to mirror her own journey. At just 21, she has already faced the highs and lows of global stardom, from her historic US Open victory to the crushing defeats that test her resilience. Her connection to *Swag* underscores the universal appeal of music as a refuge during tough times. The album’s title track, with its confident refrain of “Yeah, swag, for sure (swag on me),” has become a personal anthem for Gauff as she regroups and prepares for the hard court season ahead.
Bieber’s return to music has been a cultural moment, amplified by his strategic rollout. Fans first noticed billboards featuring the word “Swag” alongside images of Bieber, some capturing tender moments with his family. Hailey Bieber played a key role in hyping the release, reposting teasers with playful jabs at critics, including one that read, “Is it finally clocking to you f***ing losers?” The album’s production, helmed by a diverse team including Carter Lang, Dylan Wiggins, and Daniel Caesar, blends fuzzed-out guitar riffs with polished pop sensibilities, creating a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. This sonic evolution has clearly struck a chord with Gauff, whose taste in music reflects her generation’s eclectic influences.
As Gauff takes time to reflect and recharge, her affinity for *Swag* highlights the intersection of sports and pop culture, where athletes and artists alike grapple with pressure, scrutiny, and the pursuit of excellence. While she may not have claimed the Wimbledon title this year, Gauff’s openness about her struggles and her ability to find joy in small moments—like vibing to Bieber’s latest tracks—paints a picture of a young woman balancing vulnerability and strength. With the US Open on the horizon, fans are eager to see how Gauff channels this energy into her next chapter, perhaps with *Swag* as the soundtrack to her comeback.
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