Coco Gauff began her 2025 season on a high note, leading Team USA to victory at the United Cup alongside Taylor Fritz. Currently ranked No. 3 in the WTA, Gauff dominated her opponents, including world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, showcasing her calm demeanor and powerful play. As she heads into the Australian Open, Gauff faces a challenging draw, starting with Sofia Kenin, the last American to win the tournament.
Kenin: A Familiar and Formidable Opponent
Speaking on the Tennis Channel Live Podcast, analysts Sam Querrey, Steve Weissman, and Shelby Rogers discussed the potential outcomes for players at the Australian Open. Weissman highlighted the tough road ahead for Gauff, who will face Kenin in the first round. Kenin, a former Australian Open champion, holds a 2-1 head-to-head advantage over Gauff, including a victory during her 2020 title-winning run. Their last singles encounter was ten months ago at the 2024 Madrid Open, where Gauff and Taylor Townsend defeated Kenin and Bethanie Mattek-Sands in doubles.
Gauff rebounded strongly from her early exit at the 2024 US Open, winning the China Open against Karolina Muchova and ending her title drought. This momentum carried into her performance at the WTA Finals, where she secured the championship. Gauff’s confidence is high, but the pressure of Grand Slam competition looms large.
The 2023 US Open champion has drawn inspiration from tennis greats like Serena Williams and her favorite superhero, Spider-Man. Gauff shared, “Winning a Grand Slam is the biggest shot that I dreamed. I do wanna win a Slam as a teenager, and I did that.”
After her disappointing US Open run, Gauff revamped her coaching team, replacing Brad Gilbert with Matt Daly. The change paid off, as Gauff clinched the WTA Finals and started 2025 on a winning streak. She enters the Australian Open with momentum, determination, and a playful spirit, as showcased in a lighthearted TikTok video where she imitated Spider-Man.
Gauff’s opening match against Kenin will be a significant test of her growth and resilience. While Kenin’s history and experience make her a formidable opponent, Gauff’s recent improvements and confidence may tip the scales in her favor. Fans eagerly anticipate their clash as Gauff continues her pursuit of more Grand Slam titles.
