The U.S. Open match between Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff on Saturday was a must-see for any tennis fans who have watched the rise of these two stars. But it was the post-match sportsmanship between the two that transcended sports–and it was unapologetic Black Girl Magic.
Osaka, who is the current world no. 1 and defending U.S. Open champion, easily beat Gauff in straight sets, 6-3, 6-0, to advance to the next round. But thing took a turn when she asked the clearly emotional 15-year-old to join her for the post-match on-court interview.
“I wanted her to have her head high, not walk off the court sad,” Osaka said of her decision.
Osaka, 20, could be seen comforting the crying teen, before inviting her to join her for the interview.
“She told me it’s better than crying in the shower,” Gauff said with a small smile. “After the match, I think she just proved that she’s a true athlete. For me, the definition of an athlete is someone who on the court treats you like your worst enemy, but off the court can be your best friend. I think that’s what she did tonight.”
During the interview, Osaka also turned to speak to Gauff’s parents, complimenting them on the girl they had raised. The Gauffs and Osaka’s family had often seen each other at a training center in Delray Beach, Fla.
“The fact that both of us made it and we’re both still working as hard as we can, I think it’s amazing,” Osaka said, looking at Gauff’s parents. “You guys raised an amazing player.”
This is the future of tennis. We love it!