Coco Gauff Shuts Down Criticism of Her Glam Tennis Looks at the US Open 2025

From braids to bold outfits, Coco Gauff proves that style and sport can go hand in hand — and she’s not apologizing for it at the US Open 2025

Coco Gauff (USA) after beating Donna Vekic (not pictured) on day five of the 2025 U.S. Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Aug. 28, 2025. (Robert Deutsch/Imagn Images)

You know that saying, “look good, play good”? Well, Coco Gauff is living proof of it — and she’s not here for anyone trying to dull her shine.

At just 21, Coco has already solidified herself as one of the biggest names in tennis, but during the US Open 2025, she made headlines for more than her forehand. Some critics started questioning why she takes time to plan out her hair, nails, and outfits for the tournament. And in classic Coco fashion, she had the perfect response: “I’m a human. Tennis is what I do, but it’s not who I am.”

Coco Gauff enters to play Donna Vekic (not pictured) on day five of the 2025 U.S. Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Aug. 28, 2025. (Robert Deutsch/Imagn Images)

Coco’s Glam Approach to the US Open

The Coco Gauff US Open 2025 look has been bold, coordinated, and unapologetically her. For her first two matches, she stepped on court in a fiery red New Balance top paired with a white skirt, maroon headband, and matching armbands. The vibe? Confident, strong, and totally in control.

She explained in her Vogue Beauty Secrets video that she doesn’t always plan every detail, but this time she wanted to bring her full self to the stage — outfits, braids, nails, and all. For Coco, it’s about showing up as her best version: “If women want to do that, they should be celebrated and not persecuted for it.”

Why It Matters

This isn’t just about cute fits on the court. Coco’s statement taps into a bigger conversation about women in sports. Male athletes can show up in flashy sneakers, gold chains, or custom warm-up fits, and no one bats an eye. But when women — especially Black women — take ownership of their appearance, it suddenly becomes a debate.

Coco’s point is clear: athletes are human beings, with personalities, creativity, and ways of expressing themselves. Her looks aren’t a distraction from her game — they’re an extension of her identity.

Coco Gauff hits to Donna Vekic (not pictured) on day five of the 2025 U.S. Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Aug. 28, 2025. (Robert Deutsch/Imagn Images)

The Tennis Keeps Talking Too

And let’s not forget, Coco’s game is just as sharp as her style. Ranked No. 3 at the tournament, she cruised through her first two matches, including a straight-sets win over Croatian player Donna Vekić (7-6, 6-2). Next up, she faces Poland’s Magdalena Fręch in the third round.

Fashion statement or not, Coco is here to compete — and win.

Final Takeaway

The Coco Gauff US Open 2025 conversation isn’t just about clothes or nails. It’s about athletes being free to show up fully as themselves. Coco’s message? You can dominate on the court and look amazing doing it. And honestly — why shouldn’t she?