Coco Gauff has spoken openly about her feelings on representing the United States in the aftermath of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. Following her remarkable victory at the 2025 French Open, the 21-year-old reflected on how the current political climate has influenced her mindset and motivation.
Gauff secured her second Grand Slam title with a hard-fought win over World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, coming back from a set down to triumph 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4. Overcome with emotion during her victory speech, Gauff credited her parents for their unwavering support and thanked God, shedding tears as the significance of her win sank in.
During her post-match press conference, Gauff addressed the political tension in the U.S., expressing how proud she was to be a source of hope for those who may feel marginalized during this time.
“Obviously, there’s a lot going on in our country right now—so many things,” Gauff said. “I’m sure you all are aware. But to be able to represent something bigger than myself, to be a symbol for people in America who look like me and may not feel supported right now … it means a lot. Just being that light and hope for them is something I take seriously.”
She also revealed that her mother, Candi, had inspired her to play with purpose following Trump’s election win. Gauff shared that her mother encouraged her to lift the spirits of Americans feeling disheartened after the results of the 2024 presidential election.
“I remember right after the election, it felt like a tough moment for a lot of people,” Gauff recalled. “My mom told me during the WTA Finals in Riyadh: ‘Try to win, just to give people something to smile about.’ That really stuck with me, and I carried that same intention into today’s final. Seeing the American flags in the crowd—it meant a lot.”
A vocal supporter of Kamala Harris during the 2024 election, Gauff previously shared how she leaned on her faith during what she described as “tough times” following Trump’s victory.
Despite the political divide, Gauff reaffirmed her pride in being American. She emphasized how honored she felt to represent not just her country, but also the Black community on the international stage.
“Even though not everyone may feel patriotic right now, I really do feel proud to be from the U.S.,” Gauff said. “And to represent people who look like me at a tournament like this—it’s truly special.”
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