Coco Gauff, the 21-year-old American tennis star and two-time Grand Slam champion, made headlines at the 2025 US Open not only for her on-court prowess but also for her bold response to critics who questioned her glamorous approach to the game. As she navigated the tournament at Flushing Meadows, Gauff faced scrutiny for her carefully curated hair, nails, and outfits, a topic she addressed with confidence in a Vogue Beauty Secrets video. “I don’t know why it’s such a big deal what women choose to do with their on-court or off-court looks,” she declared, emphasizing her humanity over her athletic identity. “I’m like, ‘I’m a human. Tennis is what I do, but it’s not who I am.’” Her powerful words resonated across the tennis world, sparking a conversation about self-expression and the unfair judgment faced by female athletes.
Gauff’s journey at the 2025 US Open, which ran from August 24 to September 7, was a blend of resilience and flair. The world No. 3, fresh off her 2025 French Open title and 2023 US Open victory, entered the tournament with high expectations. She advanced through the early rounds with grit, defeating Ajla Tomljanovic in a nervy three-setter and then Croatian Donna Vekic 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, sporting a striking red New Balance crop top and white skirt, complemented by burgundy nails with green tennis-themed accents. “I plan my outfits for tournaments well in advance just because I like to know what I’m wearing,” Gauff revealed, noting that she coordinates her hair and nails to match, especially for Grand Slams. While she admitted it’s “very rare” to have all three elements—hair, nails, and outfit—perfectly aligned, she strives for this “trifecta” to feel her best on court. “For me, that’s just showing up on court being the best version of myself,” she said, underscoring the confidence her style brings.
Critics, however, argued that Gauff’s focus on fashion detracted from her game. “People will tell me, ‘Oh, you should spend more time on the court than your outfits,’” she recounted, dismissing the notion that her preparation for matches is overshadowed by her appearance. “And I like to express my way just like any other person likes to express themselves,” she added, advocating for women to be celebrated, not criticized, for their choices. Her standout look at the 2024 Paris Olympics—a blue and white ensemble paired with teammate Jessica Pegula—further showcased her flair, though she opted for sunscreen over makeup during matches due to excessive sweating. “I just sweat too much and, like, makeup would be all over,” she explained, contrasting her approach with players like Serena and Venus Williams, who have worn eyeliner on court.
Gauff’s US Open run ended in the fourth round against Naomi Osaka, who dominated 6-3, 6-2, targeting Gauff’s forehand and capitalizing on 33 unforced errors. Despite the loss, Gauff remained optimistic, noting improvements in her serve under biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan. “I felt it was the best I served all tournament,” she said, highlighting a reduction in double faults from 20 per match earlier in the summer to just five against Osaka. Her 104 mph average first serve against Osaka marked progress, even if her forehand faltered. “Off the ground I just made way too many mistakes,” she admitted, but emphasized the positive: “It’s a step in the right direction.”
Beyond the court, Gauff’s influence as a fashion icon and role model continues to grow. Her New Balance partnership, which began in 2018, has produced custom kits like the marbled navy and purple ensemble at the 2025 French Open, and her Miu Miu collaboration has elevated her off-court style. “I’m very passionate about expressing myself through fashion,” she said, a sentiment echoed by her 2024 honey-blonde hair transformation inspired by Willow Smith. Despite her ranking drop from No. 2 to No. 3 after the US Open, Gauff’s resolve remains unshaken. As she prepares for the WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing, her message to critics is clear: her style is an extension of her identity, not a distraction. With her talent and tenacity, Gauff’s journey promises to inspire both on and off the court, proving that confidence and self-expression are as vital as any forehand or serve.
Leave a Reply