At just 20 years old, Coco Gauff has already established herself as one of the most formidable forces in women’s tennis. Fresh off her 2023 US Open triumph, Gauff’s trajectory continues to inspire fans and experts alike. Although 2024 may not have been a standout year in terms of Grand Slam victories—marked by two semi-final finishes and two fourth-round appearances—the American star’s journey reflects a blend of prodigious talent, resilience, and remarkable achievements.
A Promising Debut: 2019 and the Early Days
Gauff burst onto the WTA Tour in 2019, making waves in a way few could have anticipated. At just 15, she faced her doubles partner and close friend Caty McNally in her WTA debut at the Miami Open. The match was more than just a typical first-round encounter; it was a moment that foreshadowed the diverging paths their careers would take. Despite the emotional and psychological challenges of facing a friend, Gauff demonstrated poise and maturity beyond her years, prevailing 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.
Reflecting on that match, Gauff remarked:
“I still don’t believe that I won. I didn’t really think it was over. This is a dream. I have been dreaming of this moment for years, just playing in the Miami Open.”
Her comments highlighted not just the surreal nature of her journey but also her deep connection with McNally. Their shared history dates back to their junior days, where Gauff defeated McNally in the 2018 Roland Garros girls’ final—a match that hinted at the burgeoning talent Gauff would fully realize in the years to come.
Diverging Paths: Gauff’s Ascent and McNally’s Transition
While Gauff’s career has soared, McNally’s path has been more modest, especially in singles. Currently ranked 817 in the world, McNally did not qualify for any Grand Slam singles draws in 2024. Her peak came in May 2023 when she reached a career-high ranking of 54, highlighted by a second-round appearance at the Australian Open and a first-round berth at Wimbledon. However, her singles performances have since faltered, leading her to focus more on doubles—a domain where she has found significant success.
Doubles Dominance: The “McCoco” Legacy
Together, Gauff and McNally, affectionately known as “McCoco,” have etched their names in the doubles circuit. They won three WTA titles, including victories at the 2019 BNP Paribas Luxembourg Open and the 2021 Emilia-Romagna Open. Their crowning achievement came at the 2021 US Open, where they reached the final but fell just short of the title.
Their partnership traces back to their junior days, culminating in their 2018 US Open girls’ doubles triumph. Even as their careers have diverged, their legacy as a doubles duo remains intact. Speaking about their journey, McNally once said:
“Coco and I, yeah, like we are not playing right now, as everyone has probably seen, but we still have a great friendship. I still consider her one of my best friends on the tour.”
Gauff’s Solo Success and Future Prospects
Gauff’s transition from a promising junior to a top-tier singles player has been nothing short of spectacular. Her 2023 US Open victory was a watershed moment, signaling her arrival among the sport’s elite. This year, she added another feather to her cap by winning the prestigious WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, further solidifying her status as a formidable contender for future Grand Slams.
Despite facing tough competition, Gauff’s ability to perform on the biggest stages remains one of her standout qualities. Her journey embodies resilience, especially in the hyper-competitive landscape of women’s tennis. With her powerful baseline game, strategic acumen, and an ever-improving serve, many believe Gauff is poised to dominate the sport for years to come.
McNally’s Role and Continued Friendship
While McNally’s singles career hasn’t mirrored Gauff’s meteoric rise, her impact on doubles remains significant. In both 2021 and 2022, she reached the US Open doubles final—once with Gauff and once with Taylor Townsend. Her ability to adapt and thrive in doubles speaks to her tactical intelligence and court awareness, traits that have kept her competitive even as her singles ranking has dipped.
The friendship between Gauff and McNally adds a heartwarming dimension to their story. Tennis can be a solitary sport, but their bond offers a refreshing reminder of the camaraderie that exists within the competition. Fans often speculate about a potential “McCoco” reunion on the doubles court, and while nothing is certain, their mutual respect and friendship suggest that it’s a possibility worth hoping for.
Looking Ahead
As Gauff prepares for the 2025 season, the expectations are high. Her journey so far suggests that she has only scratched the surface of her potential. With a Grand Slam title already under her belt and a WTA Finals victory to her name, the future looks incredibly bright. Her focus will likely be on adding more Grand Slam titles and possibly reclaiming the world No. 1 ranking.
For McNally, the path may be different, but her contributions to the sport—especially in doubles—remain valuable. Her story is a testament to the different trajectories a tennis career can take, and her enduring friendship with Gauff adds a layer of depth to both their narratives.
In an era where women’s tennis is brimming with talent, Gauff and McNally’s journeys remind us of the sport’s unpredictability and the human stories that make it so compelling. Whether competing together or forging their own paths, their legacy is already secure.