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A polarizing debate has erupted in American tennis circles after a renowned analyst sidelined Coco Gauff—the reigning US Open champion and 2024 WTA Finals winner—to crown Jessica Pegula as the nation’s top player. While Gauff rocketed into 2025 with a United Cup triumph, her momentum fizzled post-Australian Open, marked by early exits in Dubai, Doha, and a lackluster Sunshine Double. Meanwhile, Pegula quietly surged, reaching her maiden Miami Open final and closing the rankings gap to a razor-thin 267 points.
But what’s fueling this bold take? Let’s dive into the numbers, the noise, and the analyst’s bombshell verdict.
Why Pegula’s craft earns the nod
The hot take comes from Rick Macci, the legendary coach behind Serena and Venus Williams, who took to social media to applaud Jessica Pegula’s tactical brilliance. Dubbing her the “American Master” and “Buffalo Blaster,” Macci highlighted her mental toughness and versatile skill set:
“Her mind and strokes are like granite… Her understanding of the court gives others trouble.”
While Coco Gauff’s explosive athleticism grabs headlines, Macci argues Pegula’s consistency and doubles expertise (she’s held the No. 1 ranking in doubles) make her the true U.S. No. 1.
The stats back his claim. Pegula, 31, has fewer ranking points to defend this clay season (1,203 less than Gauff), positioning her to leapfrog the 20-year-old phenom. Her Miami Open final run—ending only against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka—showcased her ability to outthink opponents, a stark contrast to Gauff’s recent struggles with unforced errors and tactical rigidity.
Coco Gauff’s slide vs. Jessica Pegula’s resurgence
Coco Gauff’s 2025 arc tells a tale of two halves. After opening the year with nine straight wins, her campaign derailed with a quarterfinal loss in Melbourne and shock first-round exits in the Middle East. Though she rebounded slightly in Indian Wells and Miami, her performances lacked the swagger that defined her late-2024 dominance. Jessica Pegula, meanwhile, turned adversity into opportunity.
After missing much of 2024’s clay swing due to injury, she’s playing with house money—and a chip on her shoulder.
The bigger picture
Macci’s take isn’t just about rankings—it’s a referendum on what defines greatness. Gauff’s raw talent and marketability make her the face of American tennis, but Pegula’s methodical precision and veteran savvy are carving a quieter, equally compelling legacy. While Gauff shrugs off the “top American” label, Pegula’s stealthy climb forces a question: In a sport obsessed with youth, does experience still reign supreme?
Whether Pegula overtakes Coco Gauff in the rankings or not, Macci’s endorsement underscores tennis’ evolving narrative. For Jessica Pegula, it’s validation of a career built on grit over glamour. For Gauff, it’s a wake-up call—a reminder that potential alone won’t shield her from hungry rivals. As the clay season heats up, one thing’s certain: America’s No. 1 battle just got personal.
