Aryna Sabalenka couldn’t contain her emotions after her devastating loss to Coco Gauff in the 2025 French Open final. The World No. 1 broke down in tears as she took the stage during the trophy presentation.
Looking to win her maiden French Open title, Sabalenka made a strong start to the blockbuster contest by rushing away to a 4-1 lead. However, the match took a dramatic turn when Gauff raised her level and wiped out the deficit. Although the Belarusian managed to clinch the opening set, Gauff went on to claim a hard-fought 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 victory and secured her second Grand Slam title.
Aryna Sabalenka was far from her best during the two-hour and 38-minute encounter as she recorded 70 unforced errors, including six double faults. The World No. 1 was visibly upset over her loss, failing to hold back her tears after receiving the runner-up trophy.
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During her emotional speech, Sabalenka lamented her "terrible" performance in the final, especially after producing such a strong campaign at the claycourt Major. She also admitted that the loss was very tough to swallow.
"Honestly guys this one hurts so much. Especially after such a tough two weeks. Playing great tennis and then in these terrible conditions to show such terrible tennis in the final, that really hurts. But it’s ok," Aryna Sabalenka said.
Nevertheless, the World No. 1 congratulated Coco Gauff on her well-deserved victory and said that the American was the better player in the challenging conditions.
"Anyway, Coco congrats. In these tough conditions, you were a better player than me. Well done on a great two weeks. Congrats on the second Grand Slam. Well-deserved, you’re a fighter, a hard worker so congrats to you and your team," she added.
Sabalenka also tearfully apologized to her coaching team for her poor display but vowed to bounce back strongly after the defeat.
"Thank you to my team for your support. I am sorry for this terrible final. Anyway, thank you everyone. As always I will come back stronger," Aryna Sabalenka concluded.
In a heartwarming moment, Coco Gauff consoled Aryna Sabalenka during her victory speech. She described the Belarusian as a "fighter" and reminded her that she was still the top-ranked player on tour.
