Coco Gauff Names Jalen Sera’s Replacement in Cheeky Jab at On-Tour Partner – ‘Ditches Me a Lot’
At the Canada Open in Montreal, Coco Gauff delighted fans with her wit, playfully naming doubles partner Jessica Pegula as her “replacement” for boyfriend Jalen Sera during a lighthearted Q&A session. The 21-year-old tennis star, known for her infectious humor, was asked which tennis player she’d couple up with. Without missing a beat, Gauff chose Pegula, her close friend and frequent on-tour companion, but not without a cheeky jab: “I have played with her, we have the good time. You know, she ditches me a lot. We are supposed to go to movies and stuff, she doesn’t ever respond to my text. But I believe in second, third, fourth, fifth chances.”
This playful comment stems from the duo’s well-documented friendship, which blends on-court chemistry with off-court banter. Gauff and Pegula have forged a strong bond, often seen joking about their contrasting personalities—Gauff’s vibrant energy versus Pegula’s more reserved demeanor. Their camaraderie shines in doubles matches, where they’ve competed together successfully, including at major tournaments. However, Gauff’s remark about Pegula “ditching” her refers to a running joke between them. Previously, Gauff called out Pegula for bailing on a planned movie outing, a moment she referenced again in Montreal with her signature humor. Despite the teasing, Gauff’s mention of giving Pegula “fifth chances” underscores their enduring friendship.
The context of Gauff’s quip also ties to her relationship with Jalen Sera, her boyfriend, who has been a supportive presence but isn’t always on tour. By jokingly “replacing” him with Pegula, Gauff highlighted the importance of her tennis peers as a second family on the grueling WTA circuit. Pegula, 31, is a reliable partner, both in doubles and as a friend, even if her texting habits leave something to be desired, as Gauff humorously pointed out.
This moment at the Canada Open added to Gauff’s growing reputation not just as a tennis prodigy—former US Open champion and world No. 2—but as a charismatic figure who connects with fans through her authenticity. Her ability to balance competitive intensity with lighthearted moments like these makes her a standout in the sport. Meanwhile, Pegula, a top-10 player herself, takes Gauff’s teasing in stride, their friendship a testament to the camaraderie that sustains players through the tour’s demands.
As Gauff continues her 2025 season, her playful jab at Pegula reminds fans of the human side of tennis. Whether she’s chasing titles or roasting friends, Gauff brings a refreshing energy to the court. For now, Pegula might need to check her texts—Gauff’s clearly waiting for that movie night.
