“We Suck”- Coco Gauff & Novak Djokovic Bring the Party to Miami Open With a Hilarious Tennis Twist
Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff Face Off in a Hilarious Giant Pong Challenge
Remember Novak Djokovic’s unforgettable camel-back tennis match in Doha? Just a month ago, the Serbian legend took on Carlos Alcaraz in a lighthearted desert duel before the Qatar Open. Fast forward to Miami, and Djokovic found himself in another unconventional showdown—this time against American star Coco Gauff in a game of Giant Pong.
While Gauff walked away with the win, she didn’t shy away from admitting their performances were far from impressive. But how did the match unfold?
Djokovic and Gauff Look for a Fresh Start in Miami
Both Djokovic and Gauff have had challenging starts to their seasons, struggling to capture a major title so far.
For Djokovic, things initially looked promising at the Australian Open, but a muscle tear forced him to retire during his semifinal against Carlos Alcaraz. Since then, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has struggled to regain form, suffering an early exit in Qatar to Matteo Berrettini and a stunning first-round loss at Indian Wells to lucky loser Botic Van de Zandschulp.
Gauff’s path has been eerily similar. After an impressive United Cup performance to start 2025, consistency has eluded her. She fell in the Australian Open quarterfinals to Paula Badosa, then suffered surprising losses to Marta Kostyuk (Qatar) and McCartney Kessler (Dubai). Even at Indian Wells, flashes of brilliance weren’t enough, as she bowed out in the round of 16.
Djokovic and Gauff Take on the Giant Pong Challenge
Before Miami got serious, Djokovic and Gauff decided to shake things up with a lighthearted pre-tournament challenge. The Miami Open’s official Instagram captured the fun, posting:
“Something we never thought we’d see 👀 @djokernole and @cocogauff take on the Giant Pong Challenge 💥.”
In the video, Gauff explained the rules to the 24-time Grand Slam champion:
“Novak, this is Giant Pong, and here’s how it works. Behind the baseline, we each have six giant red party cups to aim for. First to clear all six wins. Any questions?”
Djokovic, ever the ultra-competitor, responded with confidence:
“No, I got it! Let’s go.”
However, the challenge proved trickier than expected, with windy conditions playing a major role. Djokovic quickly pointed out his disadvantage:
“By the way, you’re using your racquet—I am not. I have an excuse. Reading the wind, I think it’ll be a success if we make one today.”
Even Gauff grew frustrated, jokingly asking, “Can we do the moderate format, please?”
As the struggle continued, Djokovic moved the cups closer, saying:
“Let’s give ourselves a chance, okay?”
Gauff then delivered the ultimate verdict:
“We suck.”
Despite the chaotic fun, Gauff emerged victorious, while Djokovic—borrowing Lorenzo Musetti’s racket after forgetting his own—mounted a late comeback attempt.
A Fresh Mindset for Miami Open
Both stars have been making the most of their pre-tournament downtime, keeping things light and fun before the serious competition begins.
Gauff, fresh off her Indian Wells exit, celebrated her 21st birthday and launched her new signature shoe. Meanwhile, Djokovic attended a star-studded pre-party for the Miami Open, mingling with Carlos Alcaraz, Matteo Berrettini, Juan Martin del Potro, Holger Rune, and footballer Paul Pogba.
Now, however, the focus shifts to the court. Djokovic returns to Miami Open action today, marking his first appearance since 2019, while Gauff has already dominated her opening match, delivering a 6-0, 6-0 ‘double bagel’ win over Sofia Kenin.
Can Gauff Continue Her Dominant Run?
Gauff, who grew up in Delray Beach, thrives in Florida’s humidity and familiar conditions. Reflecting on her Miami advantage, she said:
“Being in the Florida humidity, the ball doesn’t fly through the air as much, and the courts are a little bit more similar to what I practice on. It makes a difference when you’re playing in conditions you’re used to.”
She now faces Maria Sakkari in the third round, whom she recently defeated at Indian Wells. Their head-to-head stands at 5-4 in Sakkari’s favor, but they are tied 2-2 in U.S. events.
Can Gauff keep up the momentum and continue her dominant Miami Open campaign?
