Coco Gauff shared a funny and embarrassing moment with fans before the start of the 2026 French Open in Paris. The American tennis star arrived in the French capital alongside her mother, Candi Gauff, ahead of her Roland Garros title defense. During a walk through the city, Gauff's mother stopped her to take pictures beside posters promoting the tournament, one of which featured the reigning champion herself.
The moment quickly became popular after Gauff uploaded a video on social media. In the clip, the 22-year-old appeared shy while posing and pointing at the poster as requested by her mother. She joked that traveling with her mother means being forced to take pictures beside every image of herself across the city. The lighthearted incident came just days before the clay-court Grand Slam begins on May 24, where Gauff will attempt to win her second straight French Open title after defeating Aryna Sabalenka in last year's final.
Coco Gauff staying relaxed before French Open challenge
Coco Gauff left embarrassed by mother Candi in an hilariously-adorable moment ahead of French Open title defense. Despite the pressure of entering Roland Garros as defending champion, Coco Gauff appears calm and focused ahead of the tournament. The American recently explained that she no longer views the event as something she must 'defend.' Instead, she wants to approach it like any other tournament on the calendar.
Speaking before the competition, Gauff admitted that she felt more pressure while returning to the US Open after winning her first Grand Slam title in 2023. This time, however, she believes every season brings a fresh opportunity and that past success guarantees nothing. She explained that her mindset has changed and that she simply wants to compete again and try to win another title in Paris.
The American also made a humorous comparison with Rafael Nadal. She joked that she cannot expect to defend the French Open title every year like the Spanish legend once did. Nadal famously dominated Roland Garros for nearly two decades and lifted the trophy 14 times during his historic career.
Gauff's form and mother's support
Gauff enters the tournament in strong form despite her recent disappointment at the Italian Open. She reached the final in Rome before losing to Elina Svitolina in three sets. Before that, she also enjoyed deep runs on clay in Stuttgart and Madrid, continuing an impressive build-up to the French Open.
Throughout the clay season, Candi Gauff has remained a constant presence in her daughter's player box. During the Italian Open, she revealed that she stays calm during tense matches by relying on prayers while watching Coco compete on court.
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