Tennis players often share their struggles with the demanding schedule and travel, battling jet lag and sleep issues while trying to stay focused. But it’s not just the athletes who face challenges; fans do, too! With tournaments in different time zones, viewers often find themselves wrestling to stay awake or catch matches on time. However, when a player is as captivating as Coco Gauff, fans are more than willing to make that sacrifice.

After clinching the 2024 WTA Finals and dazzling at the China Open, Coco Gauff has become a must-watch for U.S. tennis fans, with many staying up late just to catch her in action. One fan on X shared a heartwarming moment with a picture of their toddler sitting close to the TV, watching Gauff on screen. They wrote, “My toddler got a big girl bed 3 days ago so she’s been coming out in the middle of the night. I’m up watching @CocoGauff & this girl decided to pull up a chair🫠 reminds me of being up watching tennis down under fresh out of the hospital after giving birth #tennislover #unitedcup”

In another post, this fan captured their child imitating Gauff’s moves, captioning it, “Bed but not before copying @CocoGauff motion lol Coco’s youngest fan is off to bed #unitedcup #tennislover #tennisdownunder.” This shows how Gauff’s influence transcends generations and resonates with fans of all ages.

Currently, the 20-year-old sensation is making headlines at the United Cup, teaming up with Taylor Fritz to lead Team USA into the semifinals. She kicked things off with a dominant 6-1, 6-4 victory over Karolina Muchova, showcasing her impressive form. Meanwhile, Fritz was poised to seal the tie against Tomas Machac. But saw the match take an unexpected turn when Machac retired after losing three straight games. With a 2-0 lead, Team USA is now set to face Poland in the finals, and Gauff’s stellar performances have reignited American interest in tennis just ahead of the Australian Open on January 12!

As fans marvel at Gauff’s talent, insiders in the tennis world are equally impressed. After her outstanding performance at the United Cup, she is set to face World No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the final match tomorrow. Swiatek has already begun praising Gauff’s remarkable displays throughout the tournament, acknowledging her impact on the sport and her growing legacy within American tennis.

Iga Swiatek praises Gauff’s performance this season

Swiatek helped secure the Poland team’s spot in the United Cup finals with a hard-fought 7-6(5), 6-4 victory over Elena Rybakina. Now, with the final scheduled for Sunday in Sydney, the No.2 and No. 3 ranked players are preparing for their 14th meeting on Tour. When asked about facing Coco Gauff, Swiatek acknowledged her as a “very familiar opponent,” praising her recent performance: “And against Coco, you know, she’s playing great, I think. I mean, I haven’t watched, but Coco is I think at this stage she’s developing every month, and it’s going to be also a nice challenge.”

The Pole’s journey to the finals included a mixed doubles victory with Hubert Hurkacz over Karolina Muchova and Tomas Machac, securing Poland’s top spot in Group B. Earlier, she achieved her 10th career United Cup singles win with a solid performance against Muchova. Reflecting on facing Muchova twice, Swiatek said, “Well, I wouldn’t say it’s super weird… there is always going to be a question, like, is she going to change something or not? … I can kind of play without expectations and just push for more as I did today. I’ll focus on myself.”

Gauff is equally ready for the challenge and sent a confident message to Swiatek. “Yeah, I’m feeling great. I felt like I was playing good today. Obviously Iga is a tough opponent. I don’t know. I haven’t thought about it too much yet. But yeah, I think it’s going to be a great level of tennis and super excited to go out there tomorrow and hopefully bring the Cup back home,” she stated during a post-match press conference.

Fans can expect an electrifying showdown in Sydney. Both players are in top form and eager to claim victory for their teams. Gauff aims to kick off her 2025 season with a United Cup victory. And perhaps carry that momentum into the Australian Open. What’s your take on this?