In a dramatic turn of events following the 2025 Roland-Garros final, Aryna Sabalenka has issued a heartfelt apology to Coco Gauff after her post-match comments sparked controversy. Sabalenka, the world No. 1, faced backlash for suggesting that Gauff’s victory was more due to her own errors than the American’s performance. The Belarusian star has since admitted her remarks were “completely unprofessional” and has taken steps to mend the rift.
After Gauff’s stunning 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 comeback in the final, Sabalenka attributed the loss to her own mistakes rather than acknowledging Gauff’s skill. She stated, “That was just completely unprofessional of me,” reflecting on her emotional response post-match. Sabalenka admitted, “I let my emotions get the better of me. I absolutely regret what I said back then.” 
Recognising the impact of her words, Sabalenka reached out to Gauff with a private apology. She expressed her respect for Gauff and affirmed that the American “absolutely deserved to win the tournament.” Sabalenka acknowledged the importance of learning from such experiences, stating, “We all make mistakes. I’m just a human being who’s still learning in life.”
Coco Gauff, poised as ever, responded to the situation with grace. While she was initially surprised by Sabalenka’s comments, Gauff chose to give her rival “the benefit of the doubt,” attributing the remarks to the emotional nature of the match. She noted, “I saw how windy it was on the court, I knew it was gonna be an ugly win.”
As both players prepare for Wimbledon 2025, the tennis world watches closely. Their rivalry, marked by intense matches and personal growth, adds a compelling narrative to the sport. While the controversy has tested their relationship, it also highlights the human side of professional athletes and the importance of respect and sportsmanship.
For more insights into their journey and the evolving dynamics of women’s tennis, stay tuned as we continue to cover their progress and the unfolding storylines.
