Coco Gauff has officially wrapped up her 2025 season on the WTA Tour, closing the chapter on a year that challenged her at times but ultimately solidified her status as one of the major forces in women’s tennis. Although the campaign included stretches where her form wavered, she still emerged with one of the sport’s most coveted achievements: a second Grand Slam singles trophy, secured on the clay courts of Roland Garros in June. That victory alone ensured that her year would be remembered as a success, even with the ups and downs that naturally accompany a long competitive season.
With the dust now settling on her 2025 results, the American star is already looking ahead to what promises to be another demanding and potentially rewarding year. Fans, analysts, and opponents alike are eager to see how Gauff will follow up her strong performances as she transitions into 2026. Although her full schedule has not been officially confirmed, there are several events that she is overwhelmingly expected to enter, based on tradition, ranking, and her established playing patterns. Below is a projection of where Gauff is most likely to compete throughout the early stretch of the 2026 season.
United Cup — January 2–11
Just as she did at the start of her 2025 campaign, Gauff is anticipated to launch her 2026 season at the United Cup, the mixed-team event jointly held across Sydney and Perth. Representing the United States has become an increasingly prominent part of her tennis identity, and the tournament’s unique team atmosphere seems to energize her. The American squad entered the 2025 edition as defending champions, and Gauff contributed impeccably by winning every singles match she contested. Given how well she performs in this team-based environment—and how valuable the United Cup can be for building early-season rhythm—it is widely expected that she will once again headline the U.S. team as they attempt another deep run.
Australian Open — January 18 – February 1
Once United Cup commitments wrap up, Gauff’s focus will shift to the first major of the tennis calendar: the Australian Open. The 2026 edition, beginning in mid-January and extending into early February, will likely see Gauff enter the draw as the tournament’s No. 3 seed, reflecting her top-tier ranking and the competitive stature she has earned. Melbourne has been a productive destination for her in the past. She posted a semi-final finish in 2024 and reached the quarter-finals in 2025, demonstrating steady progress on the hard courts of Rod Laver Arena. With her improved experience and confidence as a multiple Grand Slam champion, many will look to her as one of the title contenders.
Qatar Open — February 9–15
Following a brief pause after Melbourne, Gauff is expected to continue her early-season momentum by traveling to Doha for the Qatar Open, the first WTA 1000 event of 2026. This tournament typically attracts the sport’s most elite players, and it often serves as a barometer for how well athletes adapt from the Grand Slam tempo back into the grind of regular-tour competition. Given her age, ranking, and ambition, entering Doha is the logical next step in maintaining points and match sharpness. The fast, wind-affected conditions in Qatar present unique challenges, but they also reward players with strong movement and powerful baseline games—qualities Gauff has consistently showcased.
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