Simone Biles & Coco Gauff: US Open Support & Inspiration

Gauff Powers to US Open Third Round, Inspired by Simone Biles‘ Presence

A powerful display of resilience and a boost from an unexpected spectator propelled Coco Gauff into the third round of the 2025 US Open. The world number three overcame a shaky start to secure victory, fueled by the presence of Olympic champion Simone Biles in the stands.

Early Struggles and a Tactical Adjustment

Gauff’s path to the third round hasn’t been without its challenges. This tournament has been particularly focused on refining her serve, with the athlete recently incorporating a biomechanics coach to address ongoing struggles. While enhancement was evident from her first-round win,inconsistencies remained,highlighted by eight double faults during her latest match – seven of which occurred in a tough opening set where she faced four service breaks.

However, a turning point arrived with the arrival of Biles. the second set showcased a marked improvement in Gauff’s performance, characterized by zero break points conceded, a single double fault, and an impressive 77% first serve percentage.

Did you know? – Coco Gauff began working with a biomechanics coach specifically to improve her serve consistency. This highlights the increasing emphasis on scientific analysis in modern tennis training.

A Mutual Source of Inspiration

The impact of Biles’ presence extended beyond the court. Gauff revealed in a post-match press conference that Biles is among her sporting idols, alongside Serena Williams, forming part of her personal “Mount Rushmore of athletes.” She elaborated on the profound influence Biles has had on her approach to the mental aspects of competition.

“I think everything she went through on the mental side of things of the sport,something that I followed closely and tried to learn from,” Gauff stated. “So to see her there tonight gave me a reminder that I needed.” The two athletes were able to connect after the match, sharing a special moment in the corridors of Flushing Meadows.

Pro tip: – Athletes often draw inspiration from peers in other sports. Recognizing and acknowledging these influences can be a powerful tool for mental fortitude during competition.

Biles’ Eager support

Biles herself expressed her excitement at witnessing Gauff’s performance. According to the US Open, Biles shared with Gauff, “Of course, I had to [come] you’ve been popping off lately! Gymnastics is so different so I just wanted to scream, ‘Go Coco!’ but then thay were like, ‘Maybe not right now’ and I was like ‘Got it’. But no, congrats! I love watching you, everything you do.”

Gauff reciprocated the admiration,telling the 11-time Olympic medalist,”You’re such an inspiration. Like seriously what I said in the interview, I was thinking about that literally. My mom did gymnastics on a way lower level than you, and so she was like, ‘If I can focus on that, then you can do that.’ You’re such an inspiration, seriously. Thanks for coming.”

Looking ahead: Facing Fręch in the Third Round

Gauff’s next challenge will be against 28th seed Magdalena Fręch, as the 2023 US Open champion continue

Reader question: – How important do you think the presence of supportive figures, like Simone Biles, is for athletes competing under pressure?