On a vibrant Thursday at the 2025 French Open, the TNT Sports studio at Roland Garros became the stage for a historic and heartfelt moment in tennis history. Coco Gauff, the 21-year-old world No. 2 and 2023 US Open champion, joined two of her idols, Venus Williams and Sloane Stephens, at the broadcast desk, creating a powerful tableau of three generations of Black American women who have reshaped the sport. This poignant reunion, which took place after Gauff’s commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory over 2024 French Open junior champion Tereza Valentova in the second round, was more than a post-match interview—it was a celebration of legacy, inspiration, and the enduring impact of trailblazers in tennis. The moment, described by Sloane Stephens as “a page in the history books,” resonated deeply with fans and players alike, highlighting the profound influence of these three Grand Slam champions.
Gauff, still early in her ascent but already a global star, was visibly moved as she sat alongside Venus, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, and Stephens, the 2017 US Open winner. The trio, representing nine major titles combined, shared a 20-minute conversation that blended nostalgia, laughter, and mutual admiration. Gauff’s voice trembled with emotion as she addressed Venus, whom she famously defeated in her Grand Slam debut at Wimbledon in 2019 at just 15 years old. “You and Serena are the reason I started this sport, and being here is surreal,” she said, her words catching as she reflected on the unexpected honor of joining her idols. “I didn’t know you were going to be at the desk. I’m having a little moment here, so I’m trying to get the words out … I never thought when I picked up a racquet that I would be here, sitting with you, having this conversation.” Venus, making her commentary debut for TNT Sports, responded with warmth: “I’m so glad you’re here; because of you and Sloane, there are so many young girls who are picking up racquets, and that’s so important.”
The moment was especially meaningful for Gauff, who shared a personal anecdote about her connection with Stephens, who is currently sidelined by a foot injury but shining as a TNT commentator. “I remember hitting with Sloane when I was like 8 years old,” Gauff recalled, her eyes lighting up. “And I had a birthday party at maybe 10 or 11, and she surprised me and showed up. I felt like the coolest kid ever having her come.” Stephens, 32, beamed at the memory, later posting a photo of the trio on Instagram with the caption, “This isn’t just a photo. It’s a page in the history books.” Gauff replied in the comments, “An honor to sit between you two,” encapsulating the mutual respect that defined the encounter.
The significance of the moment was not lost on TNT’s broadcast team, which includes former world No. 1s Lindsay Davenport and Caroline Wozniacki. Commentator Chris Eubanks, a rising American player, underscored its historical weight: “It’s a really cool scene here to see three of the greatest in the history of women’s tennis all sitting beside each other, three incredibly profound Black women who’ve done great things in this sport.” The trio’s discussion touched on their shared experiences, from overcoming adversity on the court to their influence on tennis fashion. Stephens, known for her vibrant on-court style, noted, “I think fashion is a way to express yourself without having to speak per se. In tennis, everything has been kind of status quo, white shirts, polos. Being able to wear things that make you feel good and happy, the bright colors, it actually changes the game.”
Venus, 44, brought her signature glamour and gravitas to the desk, hosting a segment called “Roland with Venus” that explores the intersection of tennis and Parisian culture. Her presence, alongside Stephens’ courtside commentary and Gauff’s rising star power, highlighted the contributions of Black women to American tennis. On the same day, other Black American women, including Madison Keys, Alycia Parks, and Taylor Townsend, competed at Roland Garros, a testament to the legacy forged by players like Venus and Serena Williams. As Gauff prepares for her quarterfinal clash against Keys, an all-American showdown, she carries the inspiration of this moment forward, fueled by the pioneers who paved her path.
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