Coco Gauff has once again proven that her best tennis often shines when the spotlight of Grand Slam pressure fades. After a fourth-round exit at this year’s US Open to Naomi Osaka, the world No. 3 rebounded in remarkable fashion — reigniting her form across the Asian swing and reminding fans why she’s one of the fiercest competitors on the WTA tour.
Coco Gauff’s post-slam spark
The 21-year-old American has made a habit of peaking after the Grand Slam season ends, and 2025 has been no exception. At the China Open, Gauff battled her way to the semifinals before falling to fellow American Amanda Anisimova. But she wasn’t done yet.
A week later in Wuhan, she captured her first WTA 1000 title of the season, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final — an emphatic statement of intent before heading to Riyadh for the year-end WTA Finals.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Coco Gauff explained that her post-Slam resurgence isn’t a coincidence. “For me, the main thing is that it’s post Grand Slam season, so the stress is at the lowest, at the floor,” she said. “I would love to have that mindset everywhere, but not always! I think that’s the main thing.”
Relaxed, but never too relaxed
Coco Gauff revealed that one of the reasons she thrives during this part of the season is the atmosphere and support from fans across Asia.
“Also, the fan support, they give you a lot of gifts, and you feel really welcome,” she shared. “It’s one of those events where you feel really relaxed but not too relaxed, because the fans keep you engaged.”
The reigning WTA Finals champion’s calm yet focused demeanor has become her secret weapon. Playing without the intense scrutiny that accompanies Grand Slam tournaments allows her to reset, recalibrate, and rediscover her rhythm.
Focused on defending her crown
Now gearing up for the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Gauff is fully aware of the challenge ahead as she prepares to face the best of the best.
“I feel like it’s been a long time since anyone defending, so it’s like I hope I am that person, but whatever!” she said with a laugh.
But she’s also realistic about what lies ahead. “Whenever you are playing this tournament, you know your expectations for me, at least personally, are not so high because you are playing the top eight in the world,” Coco Gauff noted. “I played my first couple of WTA Finals, and I didn’t do so well. I know it’s going to be tough, and I don’t think it’s going to be any easier just because I won last year.”
As the tennis world watches, Gauff continues to evolve — learning to balance intensity with composure, and pressure with perspective. For Coco, freedom from expectation might just be the key to unlocking her best tennis yet.