At the 2025 U.S. Open, Coco Gauff delivered a masterclass in vulnerability and grit — showing fans that even the world’s top athletes aren’t immune to self-doubt. In a high-stakes second-round match, the 21-year-old was clearly overwhelmed by nerves, wiping away tears between points and covering her face with a towel. But by the end, she rallied to win — and her emotional journey was just as powerful as her performance. ABC News+2WJXT+2
Gauff’s serving was shaky early on, littered with double-faults that threatened to derail her game. KPRC+1 She was broken multiple times, and the frustration was visible. Yet, rather than shutting down, she leaned into her raw humanity. “I just show people what it’s like to be a human,” she said later. “I have bad days … how you get up after those bad moments … that’s what matters.” ABC News+2San Antonio Express-News+2
What turned things around was a pivotal reset. After a changeover, she retreated to the locker room, splashed water on her face, and refocused. In the second set, she steadied her serve — with only one double-fault — and held her nerve to close things out 7-6 (5), 6-2. https://www.wflx.com+1
Gauff credited a surprising source of calm: Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, who was watching from the stands. “If she could go on a 6-inch beam … with all the pressures of the world, then I can hit the ball,” Gauff said, describing how Biles’ presence grounded her and inspired renewed composure. KPRC
Her emotional outburst was rooted in more than just one match: Gauff admitted she’s been carrying a heavy burden. It’s “one of the most nervous tournaments” she’s ever played, she said, especially after changing her serve mechanics with a newly hired biomechanics expert. The Economic Times+1 She even acknowledged that the past few weeks, both on and off court, had been extremely tough. The New Indian Express+1
Still, for all the tension and tears, Gauff’s comeback was a reminder of her mental strength. When she finally sealed the win, she didn’t hide her emotions — she raised her fist, let out a yell, and embraced the moment. https://www.wflx.com+1
In her own words, Gauff’s fight wasn’t just about serving better or closing the match. It was about showing that she, too, has down moments — but more importantly, she has the courage to climb back up. And in doing so, she gave her fans a deeply human, profoundly inspiring victory.
