Q&A: 2025 Roland Garros champion Coco Gauff reflects on her win in Paris

USTA.com: How does this win compare to winning the US Open two years ago?

Coco Gauff: It was very different. US Open, I think I believed that I could, but part of me was just like, ‘let's just see what's going to happen,’ and it was more so relief when that match was over, relief that all the expectations were met. And then here I really truly did believe more that I could do it. I think the feelings right after match point for this one were pride, not necessarily for winning, but just proud of the work, proud of my team, proud of the people around me.

USTA.com: You won the junior French Open title [in 2018] and then the women's doubles title last year. What does it mean to you to have done so well at Roland Garros throughout your career?

Coco Gauff: When I won the junior title there, that was a big moment for me just because I love Paris and I lost in the US Open final, so I feel like I had the opposite experience as a pro, losing in the French Open final and then winning the US Open. I'm happy that I was able to spin the block back and be able to win the singles title, and then winning doubles last year I think helped prep me to do what I did this year.

USTA.com: What's it like to have all these really prominent people hyping you up on Twitter like the Obamas and Matthew McConaughey?

Coco Gauff: It's really cool to get that, especially the Obamas. It’s crazy to know that so many people that I look up to watch on TV, know who I am, and were happy that I won, so I think that's the coolest part of it all.

USTA.com: Do you make a big purchase or buy anything for your brothers when you win or when you are traveling abroad?

Coco Gauff: Honestly, I don't really do big purchases and things like that because I already have my house and my car and that's the main thing. Usually I like to invest more in experiences and trips, so I'll definitely use that money to go on an experience or a trip when I have a little bit more freedom in the schedule.

Coco Gauff: I started watching the new season while I was in Paris and honestly it's still very new because it's only I think two or three episodes in. I didn't watch last night yet. I haven't formed any opinions yet but I definitely like Chelley, I think she gives off really good vibes. I'm excited to see where all the connections and couples end up.

USTA.com: Now that you're back from Paris again, have you started watching the new season of Love Island and do you have thoughts so far? Is there anything that you want to say to all your fans?

Coco Gauff: Thank you for all the support, thank you all for the messages. I've seen the videos of people celebrating with me on match point and those are my favorite videos to watch. I've seen some people crying and saying they cried and all of it means a lot, truly, and especially just seeing it in person is what makes it matter. On social media you don't realize how many people it is, but when you go in the crowd and have those experiences in real life it means a whole lot. If you see me, don't be afraid to say, 'what's up!'