For Decades, U.S. Open Women’s Champs Got Smaller Replica Trophies. Now They’re Equal

NEW YORK, N.Y. — For decades, women who lifted the U.S. Open championship trophy on court would later go home with a much smaller version than their male counterparts. That long-standing tradition has finally changed.

In 2023, Coco Gauff became the first women’s singles champion to receive a full-sized replica trophy, identical in stature to the men’s. Standing 19 ½ inches tall, the silver cup now symbolizes more than victory—it reflects equality.

A surprising discovery
Gauff recently shared her surprise after winning the French Open this year, where her replica trophy was much smaller. “I assumed it would be the same as the U.S. Open,” she admitted. Her lighthearted TikTok video about the “miniature version” drew millions of views but highlighted a serious truth: until last year, women were not awarded the same-sized keepsake trophy at Flushing Meadows.

The USTA’s step toward fairness
The U.S. Tennis Association explained the decision to Tiffany & Co.: create replicas for women that matched the men’s in size. Tournament director Stacey Allaster said, “Equality is in our DNA here… and we wanted to do the same as it relates to the champion’s trophies.”

Rather than altering the historic women’s trophy, they kept its tradition while ensuring the keepsake for winners matched the men’s. The change coincided with the 50th anniversary of equal prize money at the U.S. Open, a movement championed by Billie Jean King in 1973.

Billie Jean King’s enduring legacy
When King learned of the adjustment, she called it “fantastic.” She added, “It sends very positive messaging that we matter just as much. Our trophy’s just as big.”

Faith reflection
This milestone reminds us of the truth of Scripture: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). Just as God values His children equally, so should we reflect that value in how we honor and celebrate achievements.

A prayer for true equality
Heavenly Father, we thank You for progress that honors the dignity of both women and men. May this victory in sport remind us to pursue fairness in every part of life. Help us to see each other as You see us—equal in worth, purpose, and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.