Coco Gauff thanks God, breaks down in tears thinking about past struggles after French Open triumph

Coco Gauff gave her first thanks to God after winning the 2025 French Open, a moment marked by tears of joy from the American. The win at Roland Garros gave Gauff the second Grand Slam title of her career, and first in Paris.

On Saturday, the World No. 2 took on Aryna Sabalenka, who was also aiming for a first title at the French Open. After losing the first set in a close tiebreaker, she roared back to take the next two sets 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 in an epic battle that lasted more than 150 minutes on Court Philippe-Chartrier.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Gauff got very emotional, breaking down in tears thinking about her previous final at the tournament. In 2022, she lost to Iga Swiatek in a straight-sets demolition that saw the American get teary-eyed while collecting her trophy.

"First I’d like to thank God… I was going through a lot of things when I lost this final 3 years ago. I’m just happy to be here," Gauff said amid tears.

Amid tears, Coco Gauff also made sure she sent a message of congratulations to Aryna Sabalenka, saying:

“I’d like to congratulate Aryna. You’re a fighter. You’re the No. 1 player in the world. I know today was a tough match, but you deserve all the results you’ve been having. Every time we play, it’s such a tough match for me. Congratulations. Hopefully we play many more."

Then, the two-time Grand Slam champion also dedicated a note of thanks to her mother Candi and father Corey, both of whom were in attendance at the final. She thanked them for the incredible support they have shown her through the years, adding another note of gratitude to her younger brothers who were watching her form home.

“I’d like to thank my parents. You guys have done a lot for me, from washing my clothes to keeping me grounded and giving me the belief that I can do it. You guys probably believe in me more than I do myself. To my brothers at home, you’re the reason I do this. You inspire me more than you know. To all my family at home, thank you," Coco Gauff said.

Coco Gauff thanks her team after French Open win

2025 French Open - Day Fourteen - Source: Getty

Finally, Coco Gauff also made sure she delivered a message to her team in her box at the French Open, thanking them for pushing her to her limits while also keeping it fun.

"I’d like to thank my team. You guys have been a joy to be around and you guys are individually truly great people. Pushing me and also making it fun. I know sometimes I’m not the easiest and I can be so serious," Gauff said.

The World No. 2 added:

"But you remind me there’s more to life than tennis. That’s what makes me play better on the court. Thank you individually, to all of you. I appreciate you guys so much."

Despite her French Open title run, Coco Gauff will remain World No. 2, following behind Aryna Sabalenka in the No. 1 spot.

Edited by Shyam Kamal