Victoria Mboko says if she wants to play against Coco Gauff in Canada after ‘very difficult’ previous meeting

Rising Canadian tennis star Victoria Mboko has expressed her desire to face Coco Gauff once again, this time on home soil at the upcoming 2025 Canadian Open. Mboko, who is quickly making a name for herself on the WTA circuit, reflected on their previous encounter, describing it as a “very difficult” match but one that fueled her competitive spirit.

Mboko and Gauff previously met in a junior tournament, where Gauff’s experience and aggressive play proved too much for the Canadian teenager. However, since then, Mboko has made significant strides in her game, climbing the rankings and earning valuable experience against top-level competition. Now, with a potential matchup looming in Toronto or Montreal, Mboko is eager for a rematch.

“It was a very difficult match, but it taught me so much,” Mboko said when recalling their last meeting. “Coco is an incredible player, and playing against her would be a huge opportunity for me to see how much I’ve improved.”

The 18-year-old Canadian emphasized how much she has admired Gauff’s journey on the professional tour, particularly her poise under pressure and her ability to balance the weight of expectations at such a young age. Mboko believes that facing Gauff in front of a home crowd would be an unforgettable experience that could further accelerate her own development.

“Playing against Coco in Canada would be special. The crowd energy would be amazing, and I know it would push me to play my best tennis,” Mboko added. With the Canadian Open serving as a key lead-up event to the US Open, a potential clash between Mboko and Gauff is generating excitement among fans who are eager to witness a new chapter in the rivalry between North America’s rising stars.

Victoria Mboko’s candid remarks reflect her fearless attitude and willingness to embrace tough challenges. As she continues her rise on the WTA Tour, a showdown with Coco Gauff would not only be a test of her progress but also a thrilling spectacle for Canadian tennis fans.

With both players likely to be in the main draw, tennis enthusiasts are hoping the tournament draw aligns to bring this exciting matchup to life.