The issue between Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka began after the American had defeated the Belarusian at the 2025 French Open. After the loss, Sabalenka stated that had Gauff played Iga Swiatek instead of her, Swiatek would have beaten Gauff.
The comment seemed like sour grapes. Why couldn't the WTA No. 1 simply say the WTA No. 2 was better on that day in Paris and move on? Instead, she might have planted a seed for a seemingly increasing antagonistic relationship.
But that was never the case, and Gauff responded to Sabalenka's words by saying she was surprised by them, but also gave the Belarusian the benefit of the doubt after a tough and emotional match. Gauff and Sabalenka were never truly at odds for very long.
Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka prove there is no rift in their relationship
Some on social media tried to push that false narrative because that is what the toxic part of the platform tries to do. It is better, in some social media posters' views, for people not to like one another without delving much into the facts.
Between the French Open and Wimbledon, Gauff stated that the backlash against Sabalenka had gone "too far." The Belarusian has not made a habit of saying critical things after losses. She doesn't like to lose, of course, but she isn't a bad person full of ill intent. She made a mistake with some words after a Grand Slam final loss. That should not define her.
Sabalenka made a point recently to say that Gauff and she are good friends, and hopefully that would appease the media in the United States who have spoken and written so poorly about the Belarusian after her words after the French Open.
To make the matter even clearer, Gauff and Sabalenka chose to create a viral moment on TikTok by taking to a Wimbledon court and dancing together in joy. There was no dislike or animosity, just two of the best tennis players in the world having some fun together as if the issue in Paris never happened.
In a world of chaos and confusion, maybe people should be more like Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka. It is OK to forgive and remain friends, even when an issue occurs that could cause a rift in the friendship. Life happens, and Gauff got over what Sabalenka said, even though Sabalenka never meant harsh words in the first place.