Coco Gauff expressed heartfelt gratitude to Simone Biles after a triumphant performance at the US Open, where she secured a 7-6, 6-2 victory over Donna Vekic. The match, held at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, was not just a showcase of Gauff’s talent but a moment of inspiration fueled by Biles’ presence in the stands. The two athletes now share an incredible bond, as both of them overcame adversity to achieve greatness in their sport.
For her, that Biles shimmered at the 2024 Paris Games, leaving with four gold medals and one silver. She’s been open and honest about her mental health struggles, particularly during the Tokyo Olympics last summer where she withdrew from multiple events due to a mental block known as “the twisties.” This pastel memory connects with Gauff, who has been vocal about her mental obstacles within the sport. To combat the increasing competitive pressure, Gauff started working with biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan, who helped her add more velocity on her first serve.
During the match, Gauff felt an added boost from Biles’ support. She added that Biles’ presence, sitting in the stands, had already taught her the importance of resilience and mental fortitude.
“To see her there tonight kind of gave me a reminder that I needed.” – Coco Gauff
In return, Gauff was effusive in her admiration of Biles, lauding the gymnastics star’s grace and humility, both on the floor and in life. Drawing from her own experience as a junior champion, Williams praised Gauff for her willingness to get outside help to improve her game.
“She’s incredible, amazing and it’s like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” – Simone Biles
Speaking to the press last week, Gauff cited Biles as her biggest inspiration. She even has put Biles on her own personal athletic “Mount Rushmore,” alongside Serena Williams. This mutual respect between these two champions should remind us just how important this new wave of awareness surrounding mental health is in sports.
Both athletes have emerged icons of fortitude and resolve pushing the next generation of athletes to take care of themselves first. On-court, Gauff isn’t just trying to make history at the US Open. As Biles has repeatedly shown us, success is measured not by the medals you win, but by the challenges you overcome.
