Coco Gauff opened her 2025 French Open campaign with a performance that screamed both “help!” and “heroic!”—and often in the same game. The No. 2 seed faced off against 172nd-ranked Tereza Valentova and, in a match that tested more nerves than net clearance, Gauff clawed out a 6–2, 6–4 win in 75 minutes.
While Gauff’s serve looked more like it was auditioning for a weather forecast—unpredictable with sudden storms—her return game kept her firmly in control. And let’s be honest: if there were WTA ranking points for bouncing back, Coco would be World No. 0.
Not Her Finest Serve Hour, But Good Enough for a Win
Serving? Well… let’s just say Coco’s racquet hand had a rebellious streak. With 6 double faults and 23 unforced errors, she practically gift-wrapped five breaks to her teenage opponent. But then she did the Coco thing: she broke right back. Every. Single. Time.
Her dad, Corey Gauff, nailed it post-match: “It’s not really a break until you hold.” Wise words, considering Coco only managed one clean hold in the second set.
If tennis were a revenge film, Coco would be Liam Neeson: she gets taken (broken), but she will find you, and she will break you back.
Why Coco Gauff Is Still a Serious Title Contender
Despite the shaky service stats, let’s not forget the big picture: Gauff has made at least the French Open quarterfinals every year since 2021, and she’s already a US Open champion. Her return game—arguably the best on tour right now—was her saving grace, neutralizing even Valentova’s youthful aggression.
Plus, with her draw opening up (next up: World No. 47 Marie Bouzkova), she has a golden chance to build momentum. The real question isn’t if Coco can improve her serve, but when. And when she does, the rest of the field better duck.
Night Matches, Equality, and Coco’s Candid Call-Out
Post-match, Gauff didn’t just smash forehands—she smashed taboos. Speaking up about the lack of prime-time women’s matches at Roland Garros, she backed Ons Jabeur’s criticism and called for equal spotlight.
“I don’t think that a woman should play after the men at 8:15 pm… If they’re only doing one match, women deserve that slot too,” said Gauff.
Preach. When Coco speaks, people listen—and not just because she hits a forehand like a ballistic missile.
Betting Buzz—Coco’s Odds at 188BET
For those who like to sprinkle a little adrenaline on their admiration, 188BET currently lists Coco Gauff at 5.00 odds to win the French Open. That’s solid value for a player with Grand Slam pedigree, a warrior mentality, and a return game that can make anyone cry into their towel.
Looking for action? Bouzkova may be no pushover, but Gauff is the clear favorite, and live bets on break-back scenarios might be chef’s kiss given her current form.
FAQs: People Also Ask
Not exactly. While her serve has been unreliable, her return game and mental toughness are keeping her alive—and dangerous.
She defeated 18-year-old Czech qualifier Tereza Valentova 6-2, 6-4.
She’s among the top favorites. If her serve improves, she’s a real threat to take the title.
She’s advocating for gender equality, asking why women’s matches are rarely featured in prime-time night sessions at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
As of this writing, Coco Gauff is listed at 5.00 odds to win the French Open 2025.
She’ll face Marie Bouzkova in the third round as she aims to reach her fifth consecutive French Open fourth round.
Conclusion: Coco’s Parisian Puzzle—Can She Solve It?
Coco Gauff may not be serving aces, but she’s certainly serving notice. Her match against Valentova was a masterclass in resilience and tactical return play. If she irons out those service kinks, this could be the year she lifts the Coupe Suzanne-Lenglen.
So stay tuned, drop your predictions in the comments, and [bet smart at 188BET]—because Coco’s campaign is just heating up.
