Coco Gauff’s mother addressed a surge of ticket requests ahead of the US Open, urging friends and family to limit their demands and highlighting the challenges posed by the volume of inquiries. On Thursday, Gauff’s mother posted a message on Instagram indicating that no more tickets were available and advising that no more than two tickets should be requested per person.

Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion and current World No. 4, said she was unaware of her mother’s social media post until she saw it on Friday during practice. Initially believing it to be a celebratory note following her recent Cincinnati title, she was surprised to find it focused on curbing the influx of ticket requests. “Honestly it was needed, and it was directed towards a few family and friends,” Gauff said.

The surge in ticket demands has caused stress for both her parents, particularly given the US Open’s location in New York, which is more accessible than other Grand Slam events. Gauff noted that while her family tries to accommodate as many ticket requests as possible, it can be frustrating when requests come from individuals with little contact throughout the year.

“People come out of the woodwork,” Gauff said. “You haven’t spoken to someone for years. They don’t say congrats or happy birthday or nothing. Then they’re like, ‘Oh, I’m in New York, can I have eight tickets to your match in your box, please?’” She added that New York and Wimbledon are especially sought-after events, intensifying demand. Gauff described some requests as “absurd,” particularly from distant relatives who do not maintain regular contact.

With a large extended family, Gauff acknowledged that while the support is appreciated, there are those who are less involved but request tickets nonetheless. She emphasized that those close to her respect boundaries and understand when to support and when to step back. Over the seven years since her US Open debut at age 15, her mother has reached a “tipping point” in managing ticket requests and acts as a gatekeeper to protect Gauff’s privacy and limit the number of inquiries she personally receives.

Gauff enters the US Open riding a six-match winning streak after capturing the Cincinnati title. She has the opportunity to climb to the World No. 1 spot if she wins her second title in Queens. Her opening match is scheduled for Sunday against World No. 52 Zeynep Sonmez.