In a heart-pounding display of resilience, Coco Gauff captured her first French Open title on June 7, 2025, outlasting world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 final on the red clay of Court Philippe-Chatrier. The 21-year-old American, who became the first U.S. woman to win Roland Garros since Serena Williams in 2015, showcased the mental fortitude that has defined her meteoric rise. Tennis legend Chris Evert, a seven-time French Open champion, lauded Gauff’s “quite incredible” triumph, pinpointing her ability to stay composed under pressure as the key to overcoming Sabalenka’s power and the match’s challenging conditions. “She really kept her calm after losing the first set,” Evert said, emphasizing Gauff’s tactical acumen and unyielding spirit in a match that captivated Paris.
The final, played under swirling winds and a closed roof, was a test of adaptability and endurance. Sabalenka surged to a 4-1 lead in the first set, her aggressive baseline game and deft drop shots threatening to overwhelm Gauff. Yet, the world No. 2 clawed back, forcing a tiebreak that Sabalenka edged 7-5. Undeterred, Gauff reset in the second set, leveraging her elite court coverage to counter Sabalenka’s 70 unforced errors—compared to her own 30—winning 6-2 with precise, high-margin shots. The decisive third set saw Gauff rally from a 3-1 deficit, breaking Sabalenka’s serve with a stunning down-the-line pass to seal her second Grand Slam title after the 2023 US Open. “She proved what a great all-court player she is,” Evert said, praising Gauff’s ability to match Sabalenka’s power while staying “calm under the pressure.”
Gauff’s journey to the final was marked by resilience. Her quarterfinal against Madison Keys, a 6-7(6), 6-4, 6-1 victory, saw her overcome 10 double faults and a nervy start, with Evert noting her “flawless” third set. “She’s a fighter. Ever since she was 15, she’s got herself out of holes,” Evert said, highlighting Gauff’s mental toughness, a trait evident since her 2019 Wimbledon upset of Venus Williams. Against French wildcard Lois Boisson in the semifinals, Gauff navigated a raucous crowd to win 6-4, 6-3, showcasing her ability to thrive under pressure. “I was just trying to fight for every point,” Gauff said, crediting her competitive spirit. “It’s not something that’s taught. I’m a very competitive person.”
Evert, whose commentary sparked debate for perceived bias, also praised Gauff’s character off the court. “She is a wonderful person,” Evert said, noting Gauff’s humility and social awareness. “She speaks out for things she believes in, she has a sense of humor, and she’s just a wonderful person.” Gauff’s platform, amplified by her $2.5 million prize and second major, has made her a beacon for young fans, a role she embraces with grace. Her emotional post-match speech reflected on her 2022 final loss, saying, “I was going through a lot of things when I lost here three years ago. I’m just happy to be here.”
Sabalenka, gracious in defeat, called the loss “the worst final I ever played,” citing the windy conditions and her 70 errors. “It was not about her,” she said, though Gauff countered, “I don’t agree with that. I’m here sitting here [as the champion].” The rivalry, now 5-5, promises more battles, especially as Gauff eyes Wimbledon, where she’s yet to reach the quarterfinals. Evert’s verdict underscores Gauff’s evolution: “The defending she did was incredible. It came down to the wire, and she kept her cool better than Aryna.”
Gauff’s triumph, her fifth Grand Slam semifinal and 25th Roland Garros win, places her among elite company as the youngest American to reach back-to-back French Open semifinals since 1982. Her fitness, described as a “superpower” by peers like Chris Eubanks, allows her to outlast opponents in grueling rallies, a factor that frustrated Sabalenka. As she prepares for the grass season, Gauff’s mental toughness, honed through years of defying expectations, positions her as a favorite to add to her legacy. With Evert’s endorsement and a nation’s pride, Gauff’s Roland Garros victory marks a defining moment for a star whose journey is only beginning.
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