Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and one of the brightest stars in American tennis, has never been afraid to speak her mind—especially when it comes to championing women in sports. After yet another strong showing by American women at major tournaments, Gauff couldn’t resist taking a lighthearted dig at her male counterparts, playfully pointing out the disparity in recent results.
During a recent media interaction, the 20-year-old tennis sensation smiled as she delivered her comment: “No offense, but the women have been carrying the flag at the majors for a while now.” While clearly meant in good humor, her words sparked conversations about the ongoing gap between the performance of American men and women in tennis.
In recent years, American women’s tennis has been thriving on the global stage. From Serena and Venus Williams’ legendary dominance to the rise of stars like Gauff, Jessica Pegula, and Madison Keys, the U.S. women have consistently reached the latter stages of Grand Slams. On the other hand, the American men’s side has struggled to replicate similar success at the majors since Andy Roddick’s US Open victory back in 2003.
Gauff’s remarks come after another season in which American women made deep runs at major tournaments. Whether on hard courts, clay, or grass, the women’s side continues to show depth, talent, and the ability to handle the sport’s biggest stages. Gauff herself is a prime example—her combination of athleticism, composure, and mental toughness has made her a fan favorite and a fierce competitor.
Her playful jab wasn’t meant to criticize but rather to highlight the pride she feels for her fellow female athletes. In fact, Gauff has often praised the younger generation of American men for their potential, citing players like Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe, and Ben Shelton as talented stars capable of making a breakthrough soon.
Still, Gauff’s words resonate because they reflect the reality of the current tennis landscape. The women’s game in America has not only produced champions but also built a strong culture of support, mentorship, and visibility. Many credit the Williams sisters for laying the foundation that allows players like Gauff to thrive today.
On social media, fans reacted with a mix of laughter and agreement. Some applauded Gauff for speaking the truth, while others encouraged her to keep inspiring the next generation. The lighthearted comment also underscores Gauff’s personality—confident, witty, and always willing to advocate for the sport she loves.
As the tennis season continues, Coco Gauff will be looking to add more titles to her growing résumé, while perhaps motivating the men’s side to rise to the challenge. Whether on or off the court, her influence extends far beyond her own matches, reminding fans why she’s not just a champion in tennis, but also a champion for American pride.