Coco Gauff Inspired by Simone Biles: US Open Meeting Fuels Rising Star's Victory

Decorated US gymnast Simone Biles met fellow American Coco Gauff at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Thursday, after the tennis star defeated Donna Vekic 7-6(5), 6-2 in the second round of the 2025 US Open.

Shortly after Gauff's heartfelt praise for Biles on court, the two met backstage, sharing an emotional exchange. Biles had inspired Gauff during a challenging match, and following her victory, the 21-year-old Floridian was thrilled to speak with the seven-time Olympic gold medalist.

Biles had watched Gauff's 7-6(5), 6-2 victory from the stands, and during her on-court interview, Gauff thanked her for being present and providing a boost - before delivering the message face-to-face.

"The thought of Simone doing her job on a balance beam gave me confidence to know I could perform on a tennis court," said Gauff, who wiped away tears several times during and after the match. "She helped me pull it out. It brought me a little bit of calm just knowing her story with all the things she went through mentally."

The world No.3 endured an emotional rollercoaster, particularly in the first set, struggling on serve and hitting seven double faults before eventually taking the advantage via a tie-break. She recomposed herself in the second set to secure the victory in front of a supportive Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, with Biles among those offering encouragement.

"Honestly, I saw her, and I don't know if she was even looking, but she helped me pull it out," Gauff said. "I was just thinking, if she can go on a six-inch beam and perform under all that pressure, then I can hit the ball in this court."

Biles praised Gauff for her composure and humility. "She's incredible, amazing, and it's like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Biles said. "It's such a privilege to watch her on home soil and witness 'Black girl magic.'"

Biles, who won four gold medals and one silver at the 2024 Paris Games, had previously withdrawn from some events at the Tokyo Olympics due to a mental block known in gymnastics as "the twisties," which made her fearful of attempting certain moves. Gauff said she has long admired Biles for her resilience and mental strength.

"To see her there tonight was the reminder I needed," Gauff added.

Biles also commended Gauff's decision to hire biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan to refine her serve. "As she grows older and matures, now that she's an adult, she gets to make the decisions that are best for her career, so I'm 100% supportive, because I know what that's like," Biles said. "To see her take ownership of her career, of the court and everything else, is just amazing to watch."

Gauff will now take on Poland's Magdalena Frech in the women's singles third round of the 2025 US Open.