Coco Gauff Embraces the Challenge of Defending Her US Open Title: ‘It’s A Little Bit Of Pressure’

Tennis sensation Coco Gauff is heading into the 2024 US Open with a blend of pressure and privilege as she seeks to defend her title.

The 20-year-old champion, who captured her first Grand Slam victory at Flushing Meadows last year, is taking inspiration from elite Olympians and even a TikTok comment as she gears up for the tournament.

“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 conference on Friday. “As my new motto is: 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.

Despite reaching the semifinals at both the Australian Open and Roland Garros, she faced an early exit in the fourth round at Wimbledon and struggled at the Tokyo Olympics.

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 found success 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.

Drawing Inspiration from Olympians and Social Media

Interactions with world-class athletes have fueled Gauff she met at the Olympics, including American sprinter Gabby Thomas.

“Meeting elite athletes from other sports made 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 fields experience the same challenges.”

In addition to support from fellow athletes, Gauff found a surprising source of motivation on social media:

“I saw a TikTok comment that said, ‘You’ve won literally and figuratively. Why stress yourself out over a victory lap?’ That really changed my perspective. No one can take my win away, 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 this moment, so I wasn’t a deer in headlights. I’m just going to enjoy it this time around,” 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 remains focused 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.”

With a mindset grounded in resilience and inspiration, Coco Gauff is ready to take on the competition and defend her US Open crown.