The US Open has always been about more than just tennis — it’s about raw emotion, high pressure, and the drama that unfolds under the intense energy of New York.
Six years ago, that drama was unforgettable when a 15-year-old Coco Gauff burst onto the scene only to be stopped by world No.1 Naomi Osaka.
That match in 2019 wasn’t remembered for the scoreline alone.
It became iconic when Osaka shared her post-match interview with a tearful Gauff, offering comfort and praise.
Looking up to Coco’s parents, Corey and Candi, Osaka told them: “You guys raised an incredible player.”
Fast forward to 2025, and the truth of those words has never been clearer.
Now, the two meet again on the same stage — this time in the fourth round — but with their roles reversed.
Gauff’s Emotional Journey
At 21, Coco Gauff has already lived through her share of emotional highs and lows.
Earlier in the tournament, she broke down in tears during a tough second-round win against Donna Vekic.
Later, she admitted she suffered a panic attack on court — something she had experienced privately before but never under the spotlight of a major.
“I was trying to calm myself down and breathe,” she told Sky Sports.
“Going to the bathroom after that first set was about resetting. It was tough, but I think I needed that moment.
It showed me how much people love me, and that I need to love myself, too.”
Gauff has also been working on remodeling her serve with biomechanist Gavin MacMillan, a tough adjustment to make in the middle of fierce competition.
Osaka’s Comeback Story
For Naomi Osaka, the 2025 US Open marks another milestone.
It’s the first time she’s reached the fourth round of a Slam since giving birth to her son, Shai, in 2023.
Now in what she calls her “second career,” Osaka is no longer the player with all the pressure on her shoulders — that weight now falls on Gauff, the reigning champion here in New York.
After her gritty three-set win over Daria Kasatkina, Osaka reflected on their 2019 clash.
“I just knew she was going to be a really great tennis player.
I was right,” the 27-year-old said. “To be playing her again after six years feels special.”
Why Tennis Needs Osaka Back
There’s little doubt that women’s tennis benefits when Naomi Osaka is in the spotlight.
With her explosive game and unique personality, she draws attention far beyond the usual tennis audience.
Born in Japan but raised in the U.S., Osaka represents Japan internationally, giving her an enormous platform across two continents.
Her family’s roots in New York — before moving to Florida for her training — add another layer to this reunion.
But when she steps onto court, the home crowd will be firmly behind Gauff, America’s rising star.
Gauff and the Weight of Expectation
With fellow Americans Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Tommy Paul already out, the spotlight shines even brighter on Gauff.
She’s become a magnet for celebrity attention, much like Serena Williams before her.
From celebrating with Spike Lee after winning the French Open to catching up with Simone Biles during this tournament, her influence stretches well beyond the court.
Biles, who has openly spoken about battling “the twisties” at the Olympics, offered advice to Gauff on handling pressure.
Gauff admitted she soaked it all in: “I was like a sponge. It really helped me feel more stable emotionally.”
A Match Loaded With Meaning
Now, as Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka prepare to face each other once again, it feels like a full-circle moment.
Gauff, once the tearful teenager, is now the reigning champion carrying American hopes.
Osaka, once the dominant No.1, is rediscovering her place in the sport while embracing motherhood.
This isn’t just another fourth-round match — it’s a battle of two women who have grown through challenges on and off the court, and whose journeys continue to inspire millions.
