Sloane Stephens has praised
Coco Gauff after the latter's victory at this year's
US Open, saying that she inspires other players to improve.
Gauff soared to victory to win her first-ever major title at the last Grand Slam of the year in New York. On her way to the final, the 19-year-old moved past fellow teen sensation Mirra Andreeva, former World No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki, and twentieth seed Jelena Ostapenko - who had just ousted defending champion Iga Swiatek in the previous round.
Gauff then registered a straight-sets win against tenth seed Karolina Muchova to secure her place in her first US Open final. Once there, she faced second seed Aryna Sabalenka and fought back from a set down to lift the trophy on home soil at Flushing Meadows.
Gauff praised by former champion
After her win, 2017 US Open champion Stephens lauded the young star, reflecting on her compatriot's talent and how her great results will inspire other players to do well.
"Obviously she's so young and so talented. I've known her since she was like 6 years old. We played at the same club and had the same coach. It's really nice to see her have some amazing results. I think everyone raises their level when they see someone doing well," she said.
The 30-year-old also talked about the 'incredible' state of women's tennis in the USA. Gauff and Jessica Pegula are both ranked inside the top 10 in the WTA Ranking and several other players, such as Madison Keys, have recently had deep runs at Slams. She added that this increased competition is important for players' improvement.
"The state of American tennis right now is incredible. Especially on the women's side, also on the men's side... but on the women's side, it's very heavy. That only makes players want to improve and get better," she continued.
