The United States Tennis Association has revealed its five-player squad for the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup Finals, scheduled for September 16-21 in Shenzhen, China. There are some notable names present but Coco Gauff is absent.
Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro Lead Star-Studded USA Lineup
Jessica Pegula takes center stage as the squad’s highest-ranked player, currently sitting at World No. 4. Emma Navarro joins as another key singles option, ranked World No. 9 at present. The 24-year-old’s BJK Cup debut came in April 2024 against Belgium, where she came back from a set down to secure victory.
Madison Keys rounds out the singles contingent as the World No. 6. Keys brings extensive experience to the team, having been a consistent presence in American tennis for over a decade. Doubles specialists Hailey Baptiste and Taylor Townsend complete the five-woman roster.
Baptiste, who played a starring role in the qualifying rounds, went undefeated in singles action against both Denmark and Slovakia. Her performances helped secure Team USA’s place in the finals when many of the country’s top players were unavailable. Townsend brings extensive doubles experience and has been a reliable presence in American team tennis for years.
The squad is set! 😤 These five will be heading to BJK Cup Finals in September! pic.twitter.com/K7H21GKpL2
— USTA (@usta) July 21, 2025
Coco Gauff Absent From BJK Cup Squad
Coco Gauff’s absence from the announced squad represents arguably the most significant storyline surrounding the team selection. Gauff has been a passionate advocate for representing her country, famously describing getting “goosebumps” when playing for Team USA.
Her absence becomes more intriguing when considering her recent statements about the honor of national representation. Gauff served as the first American tennis player to carry the flag at the Paris Olympics. She also helped lead Team USA to United Cup victory earlier this year alongside Taylor Fritz, securing the nation’s second title in three years.
Gauff last played in the Billie Jean King Cup back in 2023 during the qualifying rounds. The then-teenager played a crucial role in the Americans thrashing 4-0 to book their place in the finals. Gauff played the first tie of the match against Julia Grabher and registered a comprehensive 6-1, 6-3 win. She then teamed up with Caty McNally and the pair triumphed 6-1, 6-4 over Melanie Klaffner and Sinja Kraus.
Coco Gauff is yet to play a match since her first-round exit at Wimbledon after losing to Dayana Yastremska.
