The American wasn’t surprised by outbursts from Daniil Medvedev, Jelena Ostapenko, or Stefanos Tsitsipas in Flushing Meadows.
Coco Gauff’s 2025 US Open campaign has already been marked by drama, high emotions, and thrilling performances. Yet, in typical Gauff fashion, the 20-year-old American has chosen to downplay the tension, brushing it off as part of the normal rhythm of life on the WTA Tour.
Following her intense and emotional victories in the early rounds—where crowd energy, nervy momentum swings, and long rallies tested both her stamina and mental toughness—Gauff faced the media with the kind of calm perspective that belies her age.
“For me, it’s just another week on tour,” Gauff said when asked about the dramatic atmosphere surrounding her matches in New York. “It’s the US Open, so of course there’s more attention, but once I’m on court, it’s still tennis. I try not to overthink it.”
A Star Who Thrives on the Big Stage
Despite her modest dismissal of the drama, it’s clear that Gauff thrives under the spotlight. The US Open, with its electric crowds and larger-than-life atmosphere, has often brought out her best tennis.
This year has been no exception. Whether grinding out tough wins against tricky opponents or engaging in high-quality exchanges that light up Arthur Ashe Stadium, Gauff has proven that she can shoulder the pressure.
Her attitude of treating the US Open as “just another week” is not meant to understate the significance of the event but rather to show her maturity in handling it. Many young players crumble under the weight of expectations in New York. Gauff, instead, frames it as business as usual.
Why “Drama” Is Nothing New
Fans and commentators alike have described Gauff’s matches as “dramatic”—full of twists and emotional highs and lows. From tight tiebreaks to extended rallies where both players push the limits of physicality, her encounters have been box-office tennis.
But for Gauff, this isn’t unusual. “Every week on tour, there’s some kind of drama—whether it’s a tough match, a controversial call, or just the energy of the crowd,” she explained. “That’s what makes tennis exciting.”
Her words reflect the mental toughness she has developed since her breakout as a 15-year-old in 2019. Then, the drama seemed overwhelming at times. Now, she embraces it as part of the job.
The Balance Between Pressure and Joy
What makes Gauff’s approach so effective is her ability to balance seriousness with joy. While she acknowledges the intensity of the competition, she never forgets why she started playing in the first place.
“I love this sport,” she said. “When things get crazy out there, I just remind myself that I’d rather be here than anywhere else. That’s what helps me keep perspective.”
This balance is perhaps what allows her to perform so well in front of packed stadiums. Instead of viewing the crowd as an added pressure, she sees it as fuel. The New York fans, in particular, have embraced her as one of their own.
Growing Into a New Role
Gauff’s comments also show how much she has grown into her role as one of the faces of women’s tennis. No longer the teenager overwhelmed by questions about her future, she now commands the press room with maturity and ease.
By framing the US Open as “just another week,” she diffuses the narrative of unbearable pressure while also signaling to her rivals that she views herself as a consistent contender, not just a one-hit wonder.
What It Means for the Rest of the Tournament
With her calm perspective and steadily improving game, Gauff has positioned herself as a genuine title contender. If she continues to manage the highs and lows with the same mindset, she could be poised for another deep run.
Her dismissive take on “drama” should not be mistaken for a lack of intensity. Instead, it highlights the evolution of a player who understands the demands of the tour and knows how to handle them.
As she heads into the second week, the US Open crowd will undoubtedly continue to provide the backdrop for dramatic moments. But to Coco Gauff, that’s nothing out of the ordinary—it’s just tennis, and it’s just another week on tour.
