Aryna Sabalenka Sparks Controversy with Post-Match Accusations After Roland Garros 2025 Final Loss to Coco Gauff

Paris, June 7, 2025 — In what was expected to be a celebration of athleticism and sportsmanship, the women’s singles final at Roland Garros 2025 ended on a controversial note after Aryna Sabalenka accused her opponent, Coco Gauff, of bias in a tense post-match press conference.

The match itself was a thrilling display of talent, resilience, and emotion. Coco Gauff, 21, clinched her first French Open title in a dramatic three-set showdown against Sabalenka, with a final score of 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. The crowd at Court Philippe-Chatrier erupted in celebration as Gauff collapsed to her knees in disbelief, having just achieved a career-defining victory.

However, the post-match atmosphere quickly turned sour when Sabalenka took to the microphone during her press conference. Instead of congratulating her opponent, the Belarusian star launched into a tirade, accusing Gauff of being “biased,” though she failed to clearly explain what she meant by the remark.

“I felt like she was not playing fair,” Sabalenka said. “There was something off today. Maybe she was getting too much support, maybe she was manipulating the energy of the crowd. It didn’t feel right. I’m not saying she cheated, but there was bias—definitely.”

The tennis world was stunned. Journalists in the room exchanged confused glances, unsure whether Sabalenka was referring to Gauff’s on-court behavior, the crowd’s reaction, or a perceived favoritism from officials. When pressed for clarification, Sabalenka became defensive.

“I know what I felt out there. It was like everything was going her way. I don’t want to take away her win, but people need to see the full picture.”

Gauff, for her part, responded with calm professionalism during her own press conference. “I respect Aryna as a competitor. Emotions run high in finals, and I understand that. I played my heart out and I believe I earned this title fairly.”

Fans and analysts quickly took to social media, with many condemning Sabalenka’s remarks as unsportsmanlike and disrespectful. Former champions and tennis commentators weighed in, emphasizing the importance of grace in both victory and defeat.

“Sabalenka had every chance to win,” tweeted former world No. 1 Chris Evert. “But to undermine Gauff’s hard-earned victory with vague accusations is disappointing.”

Sabalenka has not issued a follow-up statement, but the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) confirmed that it is reviewing the press conference for potential code of conduct violations.

As Coco Gauff celebrates her historic win, the tennis world must now navigate the fallout from Sabalenka’s words—a stark reminder of how quickly triumph can be overshadowed by controversy.

Whether Sabalenka chooses to apologize or clarify her statements remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that Coco Gauff’s victory will be remembered not just for her skill and determination, but also for the grace she displayed amid adversity.