Tennis Ranks: ‘Absolutely’ Coco Gauff has been backed to become WTA world No 1 with ATP player Chris Eubanks suggesting she could achieve the feat for the first career during the 2025 tennis season…
Coco Gauff’s meteoric rise in the tennis world has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 19 years old, the American sensation has already captured hearts and headlines with her athleticism, poise, and undeniable talent.
Now, ATP player and close friend Chris Eubanks has weighed in, confidently predicting that Gauff could achieve the world No. 1 ranking for the first time in her career during the 2025 season.
Speaking in a recent interview, Eubanks didn’t mince words. “Absolutely,” he said when asked about Gauff’s potential to top the WTA rankings. “She has all the tools, the mindset, and the support system to get there. It’s not a matter of if but when.”
The Path to No. 1: Gauff’s Impressive Career Trajectory
Since bursting onto the scene as a 15-year-old at Wimbledon in 2019, Gauff has steadily climbed the WTA rankings. Her breakthrough Grand Slam victory at the 2023 US Open cemented her status as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
By the end of that season, Gauff had entered the top 10 for the first time, showcasing her ability to compete and excel against the world’s best players.
In 2024, Gauff continued her ascent, adding several high-profile titles to her resume and proving her consistency on multiple surfaces. Her powerful baseline game, combined with improved serve and net play, has made her a force to be reckoned with.
Chris Eubanks’ Insight: Why Gauff Is Primed for No. 1
Chris Eubanks, who has shared the court with Gauff as both a practice partner and a mixed doubles teammate, is uniquely qualified to assess her potential. According to him, Gauff’s mental toughness sets her apart.
“She’s incredibly mature for her age,” Eubanks said. “She knows how to handle pressure and bounce back from setbacks. That’s what you need to be No. 1 – the ability to stay consistent week in and week out, regardless of the circumstances.”
Eubanks also praised Gauff’s team, led by her coach Brad Gilbert, for helping her refine her game and approach. “Brad has been instrumental in getting Coco to the next level,” he added. “Her strategic play and decision-making on the court have improved significantly.”
The Competition Ahead
While Gauff has made remarkable strides, reaching the summit of the WTA rankings will require navigating a field packed with elite talent.
Current top players like Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina have shown their dominance in recent years, and younger stars like Emma Raducanu and Leylah Fernandez continue to emerge.
Nevertheless, Eubanks believes Gauff has the edge. “She’s shown she can beat anyone on her day,” he said. “Her athleticism, versatility, and adaptability give her an advantage over most players. And she’s only going to get better.”
What Gauff Needs to Do to Reach No. 1
To achieve the world No. 1 ranking, Gauff will need to maintain consistent results across all four Grand Slam tournaments, Masters 1000 events, and the WTA Tour. This means not only winning titles but also reaching the latter stages of tournaments regularly to accumulate ranking points.
Eubanks highlighted Gauff’s focus on continuous improvement as a key factor. “Coco doesn’t settle,” he explained. “She’s always looking to fine-tune her game, whether it’s working on her serve, improving her footwork, or studying her opponents. That drive is what will push her to the top.”
Additionally, Gauff’s ability to perform under pressure will be crucial. The expectations on her shoulders are immense, but she has repeatedly shown that she thrives in high-stakes situations. Her victory at the 2023 US Open, where she rallied from a set down in the final, is a testament to her resilience and mental fortitude.
The Impact of Gauff’s Success
Gauff’s journey to No. 1 would not only mark a personal milestone but also have a profound impact on the sport. As one of the youngest and most dynamic players on the tour, she has already inspired a new generation of fans and players.
Her presence at the top of the rankings would further elevate the profile of women’s tennis, particularly in the United States, where she has become a beloved figure. Gauff’s engaging personality, combined with her advocacy for social justice and equality, has made her a role model both on and off the court.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With the 2025 season approaching, the stage is set for Gauff to take the final steps toward achieving her dream of becoming world No. 1.
Her recent performances suggest that she is on the cusp of reaching her peak, and with continued hard work and determination, there is little doubt that she can scale new heights.
Eubanks’ confidence in Gauff is shared by many in the tennis world, who see her as the future face of the sport. “Coco has already accomplished so much at such a young age,” Eubanks said. “But she’s just getting started. The best is yet to come.”
As Gauff prepares for the challenges ahead, fans can expect to witness more thrilling moments and historic achievements.
Whether it happens in 2025 or sooner, her rise to the top seems inevitable. And when that moment comes, it will be a celebration of her talent, hard work, and unwavering belief in herself.
