“Coming in as the defending champion is a little bit of pressure, but it’s also more of a privilege,” Gauff shared during a press conferenceon Friday. “As mynewmottois: If you’re defending, that means you’ve won something before.”
A Season of Highs and Lows
Ranked third in the world, Gauff has experienced a rollercoaster season following her US Open triumph.
Her performances in the North American hard-court swing were also below expectations, with a third-round loss in Toronto and a first-match exit while defending her Cincinnati title.
However, Gauff foundsuccess in doubles, securing her first Grand Slam doubles title at the French Open alongside last-minute partner Katerina Siniakova.
The victory in Paris provided a much-needed confidence boost as she prepares for the season’s final Grand Slam.
“Meetingelite athletesfrom othersportsmade me realize that what I’m feeling isn’t so isolated,” Gauff explained. “The nerves and pressures are normal, and it’s comforting to know that even the best in their fieldsexperiencethe samechallenges.”
“I saw a TikTok comment that said, ‘You’ve won literally and figuratively. Whystressyourself out over a victory lap?’ That really changed myperspective. No one can take mywinaway, so there’s no need to stress.”
Gauff admitted that despite her rising profile, her life hasn’t changed drastically since last year’s win.
Having been in the spotlight since winning her first WTA title at age 15, she feels more prepared for the challenges that come with defending a major title.
“All that experience prepped me for thismoment, so I wasn’t a deer in headlights. I’m just going to enjoy it thistimearound,” she states.
Looking Ahead
Gauff’s US Open campaign kicks off with a first-round match against France’s Varvara Gracheva. As she aims to repeat her success, Gauff remainsfocused on the bigger picture.
“Whether it happens here, next year, or at another Slam, I’m just looking to build on what I’ve achieved.”
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