Patrick Mouratoglou, coach to Naomi Osaka, recently spoke about Nick Kyrgios’ remarkable influence on fans during the 2022 US Open, emphasizing how the Australian player attracted more attention than Coco Gauff. Mouratoglou recalled a doubles match featuring Kyrgios that drew a packed crowd, contrasting this with Gauff’s singles appearances, which did not see the same level of spectator excitement despite her growing reputation.
This comparison was shared during a lighthearted discussion before Kyrgios’ anticipated participation in the Ultimate Tennis Showdown.
Mouratoglou Recalls the Unexpected Fan Reaction at the US Open and Kyrgios’ Doubles Popularity
During a recent chat with Kyrgios, Mouratoglou reflected on how the Australian’s fan engagement unexpectedly surpassed that of Coco Gauff at the same event. While Gauff was well-known and her 2022 US Open matches generally attracted a full house, Mouratoglou expressed surprise at witnessing a sparsely filled stadium during one of her matches.
I tell you the story! I was at the I mean Coco (Gauff) was really young she was maybe 17 but she was already, you know, everybody knew her. She already did so much. So, every time she was playing at the US Open was full. And I’m watching her match in the stadium and it’s half empty. I say, How is it possible? So, I go on on Twitter. At that time, it was Twitter. And I see you are playing a doubles and the court is crazy full. So, you took the people there people went to watch you play doubles. That’s unbelievable,” he said.
—Patrick Mouratoglou, Coach
Kyrgios responded to this story by sharing the light side of his doubles matches, highlighting his relaxed approach:
My doubles matches are fun though! Cuz usually, I go out the night beforehand and I’m still hung over, so it’s fun!
—Nick Kyrgios, Tennis Player
Kyrgios’ 2022 US Open campaign included reaching the third round in men’s singles and advancing to the round of 16 in doubles, marking his most recent appearance at the hard court major.
Nick Kyrgios Continues to Captivate Fans with Sold-Out Events and Media Attention
Kyrgios’ ability to draw massive crowds was evident before the US Open, notably during the 2023 Australian Open when his exhibition practice match against Novak Djokovic sold out in just 58 minutes. Held at the Rod Laver Arena, tickets were affordably priced around A$20, with proceeds benefiting the Australian Tennis Foundation. This event was a part of Tennis Australia’s Perfect Practice campaign, designed to showcase elite players ahead of the official tournament.
The overwhelming demand stirred responses on social media, where Kyrgios sarcastically addressed critics who questioned his impact on the sport.
Wow Nick Kyrgios is bad for the sport! Wow what a disgrace, a national embarrassment! How dare he sell out another stadium, the arrogance
—Nicholas Kyrgios, Tennis Player (X, January 10, 2023)
Kyrgios’ Future in Competitive Tennis Remains Uncertain as Comeback Talk Grows
Kyrgios has hinted at a potential return during the US swing and the Ultimate Tennis Showdown led by Mouratoglou, but it is still unclear whether he will be able to rebuild the momentum he once had. His presence continues to draw significant attention, suggesting that any future appearances could generate substantial fan interest and media coverage.
With his dynamic personality and strong fanbase, Kyrgios remains a key figure in tennis discussions, while Coco Gauff continues her rise in the sport, setting the stage for ongoing comparisons during major tournaments.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Coco Gauff?
A. Coco Gauff was eliminated in the first round of Wimbledon due to a challenging match against Dayana Yastremska.
This is the second time in three years that Gauff has faced an early exit.
Yastremska won in straight sets, making it a difficult day for Gauff on No. 1 Court.
Q. Does Coco Gauff have a degree?
A. Congratulations on finishing high school, @CocoGauff! Gauff earned her diploma from the Florida Department of Education by studying through Florida Virtual Flex. At 18, she managed her education while starting a successful career in professional tennis, juggling both for the past four years.
Q. What happened with Coco Gauff?
A. WIMBLEDON, ENGLAND — Coco Gauff was eliminated in the first round of Wimbledon for the second time in the last three years. She lost in straight sets to Dayana Yastremska from Ukraine on Court No. 1.
Q. Is Coco Gauff a millionaire?
A. Celebrity Net Worth reports that Coco has earned over $24.3 million in prize money during her career. This achievement places her among the top 20 earners in Women’s Tennis Association history. In 2024, she won about $9.35 million in prize money alone.