Coco Gauff’s meteoric rise in women’s tennis reached a new pinnacle on June 7, 2025, when she clinched her maiden French Open title, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 showdown at Roland Garros. The 21-year-old American’s triumph, her second Grand Slam singles title after the 2023 US Open, has solidified her as a global icon. Renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou, who guided Serena Williams to 10 of her 23 major titles, has declared Gauff the sport’s unrivaled superstar. “Her aura is higher than anyone at the moment,” Mouratoglou said. “She’s the only one who has that superstar vibe in women’s tennis right now.”
Mouratoglou’s bold claim underscores Gauff’s unique blend of on-court brilliance and off-court charisma. Her French Open victory, watched by a star-studded crowd including Billie Jean King and Natalie Portman, showcased her tenacity and versatility on clay, a surface once considered her weakest. Trailing after a grueling first set, Gauff unleashed her athleticism and tactical acumen, overpowering Sabalenka’s relentless baseline game. “Coco’s ability to adapt and fight through adversity is what sets her apart,” Mouratoglou noted, praising her mental fortitude. “She’s not just winning matches; she’s capturing hearts worldwide.”
Gauff’s ascent comes at a pivotal moment for women’s tennis, with legends like Serena Williams retired and Naomi Osaka still regaining her form after motherhood. Current stars like Iga Swiatek, who lost to Gauff in the French Open semifinals, and Sabalenka boast impressive resumes but lack Gauff’s magnetic presence, according to Mouratoglou. “You don’t have any player in the women’s game who has this aura,” he emphasized, pointing to Gauff’s ability to transcend the sport. Her post-match speech, thanking her parents and reflecting on her journey from a Delray Beach prodigy, resonated with fans globally, earning praise from figures like Michelle Obama.
At 21, Gauff is the youngest woman since Maria Sharapova in 2006 to win major titles on multiple surfaces, a feat that highlights her versatility. Her 2025 season has been stellar, with a 36-10 record and three titles, including a career-defining win over Swiatek, ending the Pole’s 21-match winning streak at Roland Garros. “I’m just happy to be here lifting this trophy,” Gauff said, her voice cracking with emotion as she hoisted the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen. Her authenticity, coupled with her advocacy for social justice and mental health, has made her a role model for a new generation.
Mouratoglou, now coaching Holger Rune, sees parallels between Gauff and his former pupil, Serena. “Serena had that same ability to dominate the narrative of the sport,” he said. “Coco’s doing that now, and she’s only getting started.” Gauff’s off-court impact is equally profound, with endorsement deals rivaling those of Williams and Osaka. Her TIME Magazine cover in 2024 and recognition as one of the world’s most influential people underscore her cultural influence. “She’s a leader,” Mouratoglou added. “Fans don’t just watch her play; they invest in her story.”
Despite her superstar status, Gauff remains grounded, crediting her family and coaches Matt Daly and Jean-Christophe Faurel. Her father, Corey, watched the final from a quiet corner, adhering to their superstition, while her mother, Candi, cheered from the stands. “My parents keep me humble,” Gauff said, laughing about her dad’s lion-emblazoned shirt symbolizing her fierce spirit. Her bond with her team, including former coach Brad Gilbert, who helped her win the 2023 US Open, reflects her collaborative approach.
As Gauff prepares for Wimbledon, where she aims to improve on her 2024 quarterfinal run, the tennis world buzzes with anticipation. Mouratoglou’s prediction that she could dominate for years seems plausible, given her youth and hunger. “I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” Gauff declared, eyeing a potential Olympic gold in 2028. With rivals like Swiatek, Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina poised to challenge her, Gauff’s journey promises more epic battles. Yet, as Mouratoglou asserts, her aura—built on talent, resilience, and relatability—sets her apart as women’s tennis’ singular superstar, ready to redefine the sport’s future.
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