Coco Gauff's Australian Open 2R opponent Jodie Burrage issues word of caution to American

Coco Gauff's opponent for the second round of the 2025 Australian Open, Jodie Burrage, has sent a word of caution ahead of their highly anticipated matchup. The American will square off against the Brit as she continues her quest for a second Grand Slam.

While 2024 didn’t unfold as planned for Gauff, she ended the season on a high note. A late coaching change worked wonders as she clinched titles at the China Open and the WTA Finals. She arrived in Melbourne riding that wave of confidence.

The 20-year-old began her campaign at the first Major of the year with a commanding 6-3, 6-3 victory over compatriot Sofia Kenin, a former tournament champion. Up next, she faces Jodie Burrage, who triumphed over Leolia Jeanjean in her opening round.

Ahead of the clash, Burrage spoke to Sky Sports about her upcoming match, praising Gauff as arguably the best player on the WTA Tour right now. However, she also issued a warning, labeling herself an "underdog" determined to give her all to take down the former US Open champion.

"I'm really excited. So the schedule just came out and I'm playing 7 pm on Rod Lever, which is really exciting. I've never even hit on there before, so I'm going to try and hit on there tomorrow," the Brit said.

She added:

"I've played Coco before and she's arguably the best player in the world right now, so it's going to be a very tricky match. But I'm an underdog and I'm taking that attitude into the match. I'm going to take it to her. I'm going to see what I can do and I'm going to try and make her as uncomfortable as I can for her."

Coco Gauff makes her feelings known on locking horns with Jodie Burrage in Australian Open 2R

Coco Gauff pictured at the 2025 Australian Open | Image Source: Getty

Coco Gauff attended a press conference after her first-round win at the Australian Open against Sofia Kenin and shared her thoughts on facing Jodie Burrage. Although the duo previously met at the 2023 Eastbourne International, where Gauff emerged victorious, it seems the American doesn’t recall their encounter.

She said:

"I didn't remember playing her [Jodie Burrage]. It was not nothing to her, I just barely remember who I play. I saw that I played her on grass and I know she was a little bit injured I think last year and I got confused."

Gauff admitted that Burrage could be a tricky opponent with nothing to lose and hoped to bring her best tennis to secure a spot in the third round.

"I haven't watched her play recently so I think that's something I have to like look on. Obviously, I think, if you're here, you're a tough player and she's going to have nothing to lose against me but hopefully, I can play some good tennis and be able to get through that," she said.