Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old American tennis sensation, is set to make her debut at the United Cup in 2025, representing Team USA alongside world No. 7 and US Open finalist Taylor Fritz.
Gauff, currently ranked No. 4 globally, has expressed her enthusiasm for the event and her partnership with Fritz.
Gauff has consistently demonstrated a passion for team competitions, having previously represented the United States as the flag bearer at the Paris Olympic Games.
Reflecting on her upcoming participation in the United Cup, she stated, “This will be my first time playing the United Cup so I’m super excited to kick off the year in Australia. It’s always an honor to represent my country.”
The United Cup, an innovative mixed-team event, offers a unique format that includes men’s and women’s singles matches, as well as mixed doubles. Gauff, who enjoyed playing mixed doubles at the Olympics, is particularly looking forward to this aspect of the tournament.
She mentioned, “It’s a really cool event. I had a lot of fun playing mixed doubles at the Olympics so I kinda want to do that again.”
Gauff’s partnership with Taylor Fritz is anticipated to be a formidable one. Fritz, who had an impressive run to the US Open final, brings significant experience and skill to the team. Gauff’s admiration for Fritz’s game and her excitement to collaborate with him are evident.
She noted, “I’ve never been to other parts of Australia, other than Melbourne. I don’t know what city we’re going to play in yet but I’m super excited to go whether it’s Perth or Sydney.”
The United Cup is scheduled to take place from December 27, 2024, to January 5, 2025, across Perth and Sydney. The tournament will feature 18 countries, each comprising up to three men and three women players.
The event has garnered commitments from top players, including Germany’s world No. 3 Alexander Zverev, who expressed his enthusiasm by saying, “It’s the first week of the year… and we all want to be in Australia and play against the best players in the world and that’s what the United Cup brings.”
Gauff’s participation in the United Cup comes on the heels of a record-breaking year. In 2024, she earned $30.4 million, making her the highest-paid female athlete for the second consecutive year, despite not securing a Grand Slam title.
Her earnings were bolstered by significant endorsement deals and a victory at the WTA Finals in Riyadh.
As Gauff prepares for the United Cup, she aims to build on her recent successes and continue her upward trajectory in the tennis world. Her collaboration with Fritz is expected to enhance Team USA’s prospects in the tournament.
The United Cup’s unique format and the opportunity to engage in mixed doubles play align well with Gauff’s strengths and enthusiasm for team events.
Coco Gauff’s upcoming debut at the United Cup alongside Taylor Fritz represents a significant milestone in her career.
Her positive sentiments about the event and her partnership with Fritz underscore her commitment to representing her country and her eagerness to embrace new challenges on the international stage.
