Biden, Obama celebrate Gauff’s historic US Open win: ‘We couldn’t be prouder of you’

by Julia Shapero - 09/09/23 10:10 PM ET

Coco Gauff, of the United States, reacts after defeating Aryna Sabalenka, of Belarus, in the women’s singles final of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

President Biden, former President Obama and other politicians celebrated Coco Gauff’s historic U.S. Open win on Saturday.

“Congratulations to US Open champion, @CocoGauff!” Obama said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “We couldn’t be prouder of you on and off the court — and we know the best is yet to come.”

Gauff defeated Belarusian tennis player Aryna Sabalenk, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, to win her first Grand Slam title at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York on Saturday.

The 19-year-old’s win marks the first time that an American woman has won the U.S. tournament since 2017 and the first time that an American teenager has won the title since 1999.

“Congrats to U.S. Open Champion @CocoGauff,” Biden said in a post on X. “You electrified Arthur Ashe stadium and the entire nation — the first of more to come and proof that anything is possible if you never give up and always believe. You’ve made America so proud.”

First lady Jill Biden also congratulated Gauff, touting her hard work and determination both “on and off the court” as an inspiration. “Keep Shining!,” she added.

Former first lady Michelle Obama also piled on the praise.

“So proud of you, @CocoGauff!” she said. “Your hard work and grit was on display throughout this tournament. This is your moment!”

Former President Bill Clinton also proclaimed that “the future of American tennis looks bright” after Gauff’s “incredible victory,” while Republican presidential candidate.

South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott (R) suggested that “this is just the beginning” for the 19-year-old tennis star.