Coco Gauff, alongside tennis legends Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and others, participated in the Stars of the Open event, held during the US Open Fan Week at Flushing Meadows. This popular tennis exhibition took place on August 21, providing fans an engaging experience before the main tournament started, continuing a tradition that began in 2017 and resumed in 2022 after a pandemic pause.
The Fan Week exhibition coincided with the qualifying rounds, beginning with a Featured Practice session on August 18. The Star of the Open spectacle, sponsored by Chase, attracted a packed crowd eager to witness thrilling matches involving celebrated figures like Coco Gauff, the current French Open champion, and former Grand Slam winners including Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and Venus Williams.
Memorable Moments Highlighting Sports Stars’ Skills and Camaraderie
On the exhibition night, notable sports personalities united for exciting doubles encounters. Soccer star Alex Morgan joined forces with Coco Gauff to compete against Venus Williams and John McEnroe, creating lively rallies that delighted the audience. After scoring a point, Gauff and Morgan celebrated enthusiastically, showcasing great teamwork.
Reflecting on her partner’s performance, Gauff joked,
“So Good! So Good! She’s already doing better than Andre [Agassi],”
—Coco Gauff, American Tennis Player
The pairing of Gauff and Agassi also impressed the crowd with fast-paced volleys and strong coordination, earning cheers after securing a point and sharing a high-five. Agassi’s swift movements and tenacity in returning shots were particularly applauded.
Meanwhile, Andy Roddick teamed up with young prospect Alex Michelsen to face Juan Martin del Potro and Joao Fonseca, who celebrated his birthday on the same day. Roddick demonstrated his net-play expertise, thrilling onlookers with precise returns that energized the stadium.
In a mixed doubles match, Flavia Pennetta and Flavio Cobolli competed against tennis couple Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina. The contest resembled singles-style exchanges, especially between Pennetta and Svitolina, as the pairs humorously switched sides multiple times, adding a lighthearted atmosphere to the event.
Joao Fonseca received a unique tribute as 23,000 fans and fellow players sang “Happy Birthday” at Arthur Ashe Stadium during an on-court interview, with participants including Michelsen, Roddick, and del Potro joining in the celebration.
Coco Gauff’s Coaching Shift Signals New Chapter Ahead of 2025 US Open
In a significant development, Coco Gauff made a coaching change shortly before preparing for the 2025 US Open. After collaborating with coach Matt Daly since September 2024 and securing three titles together — including a Grand Slam at Roland Garros — Gauff ended their partnership following a series of inconsistent results, such as an early exit at Wimbledon.
She has since enlisted the expertise of biomechanics specialist Gavin McMillan, who previously coached former World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. This move aims to refine Gauff’s technique and help her regain momentum on the professional circuit.
Gauff, who captured her first major title at the 2023 US Open by defeating Sabalenka in a three-set final, became the first American teenager to win the tournament since Serena Williams in 1999, marking her as a rising star in tennis.
Fan Week’s Role in Creating Anticipation for the US Open
The Stars of the Open exhibition, with its blend of current champions and tennis legends, serves as a unique platform to energize tennis fans ahead of the US Open. Events like these showcase not only competitive spirit but also moments of camaraderie and celebration among players from different generations and sports. The inclusive and festive atmosphere at Flushing Meadows reflects the growing excitement for the tournament and highlights Coco Gauff’s continued prominence within the sport.
As Fan Week maintains its presence, spectators can expect more opportunities to witness special matches and enjoy up-close interactions with their favorite athletes, setting the stage for thrilling action in the main US Open draw.