The tennis world is buzzing with anticipation as Coco Gauff, the reigning French Open champion and world No. 2, makes her much-awaited return to the court at this week’s Canadian Open. But the spotlight isn’t just on her comeback—it’s also on the burning question fans have been asking: Why did Gauff, a former Washington champion and regular at the event, skip the WTA 500 tournament in the US capital this year?

After a stunning first-round exit at Wimbledon earlier this month, Gauff’s absence from Washington raised eyebrows and fueled speculation across social media. Now, as she steps onto the hard courts in Montreal as the top seed, Gauff is finally setting the record straight—and her explanation is as candid as it is revealing.

A Stunning Wimbledon Exit—and an Unusual Break

For Coco Gauff, the summer of 2025 has been a rollercoaster. Just weeks ago, the 20-year-old sensation was riding high after capturing her second Grand Slam title at Roland Garros, cementing her status as one of tennis’s brightest young stars. But the euphoria was short-lived.

At Wimbledon, Gauff suffered a shock first-round defeat—a result that stunned fans and analysts alike. The loss was her earliest exit at a major in over two years and left many wondering how the American star would respond.

Traditionally, Gauff has used the WTA 500 event in Washington as a springboard for her North American hard-court campaign. She’s a former champion there, beloved by fans, and the tournament has often served as a confidence booster ahead of bigger events like the Canadian Open and the US Open. So when her name was missing from the entry list, questions swirled.

Gauff Breaks Her Silence: “I Needed to Reset”

Speaking to reporters ahead of her opening match in Montreal, Gauff addressed the elephant in the room. “After Wimbledon, I felt like I needed to take a step back and reset,” she admitted. “It’s been a long season with a lot of highs and some tough moments. I wanted to make sure I was mentally and physically ready for the rest of the summer.”

Gauff emphasized that the decision wasn’t about injury or lack of motivation—but about self-care and preparation. “I love playing in Washington, and it’s always special to compete in front of American fans. But this year, I felt it was more important to focus on training and recovery, especially after a tough loss at Wimbledon.”

Her honesty struck a chord with many, highlighting the growing trend of athletes prioritizing mental health and well-being, even at the expense of skipping high-profile events.

A Calculated Move: Eyes on the Bigger Prize

For Gauff, the decision to skip Washington wasn’t taken lightly. With the Canadian Open, Cincinnati, and the US Open looming, she and her team mapped out a plan to ensure she’s peaking at the right time.

“I want to give myself the best chance to perform well at the big tournaments,” Gauff explained. “Sometimes that means saying no to events I love. It’s all about the bigger picture.”

The move mirrors strategies used by some of the game’s greatest champions, who have learned to manage their schedules to maximize performance at the Slams and Masters-level events. For a player of Gauff’s caliber, every decision is scrutinized—but the rationale is clear: longevity and success at the highest level.

Fans React: Support, Curiosity, and High Expectations

As news of Gauff’s explanation spread, fans took to social media to share their thoughts. Many praised her maturity and self-awareness, while others expressed disappointment at not seeing her compete in Washington.

“Coco knows what’s best for her career. If she needs to rest, we support her 100%,” tweeted one fan. Another wrote, “Missed seeing her in DC, but can’t wait to watch her crush it in Canada!”

The expectations are sky-high as Gauff returns to action. As the top seed in Montreal, she’ll face a stacked field and plenty of pressure to prove that her Wimbledon setback was just a blip on the radar.

A New Chapter Begins in Montreal

Gauff’s return at the Canadian Open is already drawing massive crowds and media attention. As the tournament’s top seed, she’s the player to beat—and all eyes will be on how she handles the pressure and the competition.

“I’m excited to be back on court,” Gauff said with a smile. “Montreal is one of my favorite stops on tour, and the fans here are incredible. I feel refreshed and ready to compete.”

Her first match will be closely watched—not just for the result, but for signs of renewed confidence and form. With the US Open just weeks away, every point matters.

What’s Next for Coco Gauff?

Looking ahead, Gauff’s schedule is packed with opportunities—and challenges. After Montreal, she’ll head to Cincinnati for another WTA 1000 event before setting her sights on the US Open, where she’ll be among the favorites to lift the trophy.

Her recent comments suggest a player who’s not just focused on winning, but on building a sustainable, successful career. “It’s about finding balance,” Gauff said. “I want to enjoy the journey and make sure I’m at my best when it matters most.”

Responsible Reporting—No Room for Fake News

At Tennis Insider USA, we’re committed to delivering the facts—clearly and responsibly. All information in this article is based on confirmed statements from Coco Gauff and official tournament sources. Any speculation or analysis is clearly labeled as such, so readers know exactly what’s confirmed and what’s commentary.

Our goal is to keep fans informed, engaged, and excited about the sport—without ever misleading or sensationalizing beyond the facts.

The Takeaway: Gauff’s Bold Decision Sets the Stage for a Summer Showdown

Coco Gauff’s choice to skip Washington may have surprised some, but her reasons are as compelling as her game. As she returns to the court in Montreal, she’s not just playing for titles—she’s playing for herself, her health, and her future.

With a Grand Slam already under her belt this summer and a renewed sense of purpose, Gauff is poised to make the North American swing her own. Whether she adds another trophy to her collection or simply finds her best form, one thing is certain: the tennis world will be watching every step of the way.

Stay tuned to Tennis Insider USA for all the latest updates, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the Canadian Open and beyond. Because in tennis, every comeback has a story—and Coco Gauff’s is just getting started.