Maria Sharapova Showers Praises on Coco Gauff and Sides With Carlos Alcaraz for US Open

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated Aug 29, 2025 9:41 AM ET

Maria Sharapova, one of the most celebrated champions in tennis history, has officially been inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The former world No. 1 received her Hall of Fame ring on Arthur Ashe Stadium during the US Open, sharing the honor with doubles legends Bob and Mike Bryan.

Following the ceremony, Sharapova sat down for a candid interview with CNBC where she shared her thoughts on this year’s US Open contenders. On the women’s side, she threw her support behind Coco Gauff, praising the American’s talent and character.

“Yeah, I’m always pulling for Coco,” Sharapova said. “I watched her US Open victory a couple years ago, and I just think she’s such a great girl and an athlete that has so much to offer. I really hope she has a long career ahead of her.”

On the men’s side, the five-time Grand Slam champion tipped defending champion Carlos Alcaraz to lift the trophy again. “I’ll just choose Alcaraz for the men’s,” she noted, highlighting his consistency and ability to thrive under pressure.

Sharapova also reflected on the current landscape of the sport, noting the contrasting dynamics between the women’s and men’s tours. “I love how diverse the women’s game is,” she explained. “Coming into a Grand Slam and knowing that there could be 5 to 10 athletes that could take the title—that makes the game really exciting.”

But when it comes to the ATP Tour, Sharapova pointed out the dominance of two rising stars. “On the other side, I love the quality and the level of tennis that Sinner and Alcaraz are producing on a weekly basis—to live up to the expectations, the physical and the mental grind. I’m in awe of their talent, and I think the rest of the men’s field will most likely catch up as well.”

Now officially cemented among the sport’s legends, Sharapova continues to follow the game closely, showing her admiration for its future on both, the men's and the women's side. “I’m a tennis fan,” she said. “I love watching the men and the women, and seeing the sport from a different perspective has been so much fun.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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