Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka’s US Open fourth-round clash promises a nostalgic encounter for fans, as these two beloved players prepare for their prime-time match on Monday.
The event is perfectly timed for American audiences, coinciding with the US Labor Day holiday, and brings together two charismatic champions six years after their unforgettable first meeting at Flushing Meadows.
Their initial face-off occurred in the 2019 third round, where a young Gauff, just 15, captivated a massive home crowd during her Arthur Ashe Stadium debut, following her impressive Wimbledon performance.
Osaka, then the reigning champion and world number one, defeated Gauff 6-3 6-0, but showed remarkable sportsmanship by comforting her tearful opponent and encouraging her to address the fans.
Osaka’s post-match interview was marked by her attention to the cheering crowd for Gauff, exemplifying her enduring sportsmanship.
“I remember it was tough for me because of the hype around the match. Reflecting on it, I realize I placed too much pressure on myself,” said Gauff, who overcame early nerves to defeat Poland’s Magdalena Frech 6-3 6-1, advancing to her fourth straight round of 16.
“Facing her again would be a cool deja vu, but hopefully with a different outcome.”
Osaka recalled the encounter, expressing excitement about playing Gauff again at Flushing Meadows.
“I knew she would be a great player,” said Osaka, the 23rd seed, who represents Japan but spent much of her youth on Long Island, making her a favorite among New York fans.
Their careers took different paths: Osaka claimed her third and fourth majors at the 2020 US Open and 2021 Australian Open but has struggled with form since, becoming a mental health advocate with her openness about anxiety and depression. She’s been resurging this season, reaching the Montreal final after her 2023 maternity break.
“Reflecting on my pre-pregnancy career, I was quite young doing what I did,” said Osaka. “I need to be kind to myself about that.”
A record 3.4 million viewers watched Gauff win the 2023 US Open on ESPN, surpassing the audience for Novak Djokovic’s 24th major title, highlighting her popularity.
Gauff entered New York as the third seed after her Roland Garros victory this year, while Osaka expressed contentment at being seeded.
“It’s been wonderful to see her growth and how she’s become a role model for youth,” said Osaka, who defeated 15th seed Daria Kasatkina 6-0 4-6 6-3 in the third round.
Venus Williams, an inspiration for both players, remarked that their rematch benefits the sport.
“Everyone will be watching,” said Williams. “That’s what tennis needs.”
