For the first time in San Francisco, the Laver Cup 2025 welcomes a familiar face back to the world stage: Yannick Noah. The former French Open champion and legendary captain of France’s Davis Cup team steps into a new role as captain of Team Europe, following in the footsteps of Björn Borg. Filled with curiosity, passion, and a competitive spirit, Noah spoke with MerciSF about modern tennis, his approach to coaching, and his expectations for this Californian adventure.
MerciSF: Yannick, thank you for speaking with us. How did your return as Team Europe captain come about?
Yannick Noah: Honestly, I never expected it. I had stepped away from tennis for a long time, since the Davis Cup. Then one day, I get a call… from Roger Federer. He tells me that Björn Borg is passing the baton and thought of me for the role. I said, “Why me? I’m not in that world anymore…” But he convinced me, and here I am in San Francisco. It’s a real joy to be here, even if it’s a bit intimidating to coach such high-level players I’m just getting to know.
MerciSF: What’s your goal for this Laver Cup in San Francisco?
Yannick Noah: Of course, I want us to win! Even if the atmosphere isn’t as tense as the Davis Cup, competition is competition. Once you step into the
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 16: prior to the start of the Laver Cup 2025 at Chase Center on September 16, 2025 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for Laver Cup)
arena, you’re caught up in that excitement, that thrill of wanting to win. So yes, our goal is clearly to lift the trophy.
MerciSF: Your motto is “Be happy first and you’ll win.” How will you put this into practice with your players?
Yannick Noah: For me, the most important thing is listening. Understanding who the players are off the court, what they hope for, what they need. When you have 7 or 8 exceptional players, each with their own story, culture, and energy, my job is to absorb those differences and find the best way to guide them. That’s what makes coaching so exciting.
MerciSF: Tennis has changed a lot since your time on the circuit. In what ways?
Yannick Noah: The game itself has evolved: courts are slower, rallies are longer, and the equipment—balls, rackets—has transformed how it’s played. Then there’s everything around the players: nutrition, recovery, mental coaching. Back in my day, one physiotherapist covered 36 players! Now, each player has a full support team. That’s part of why top players can stay competitive so much longer. Look at Djokovic or Nadal—they’re still at the top when, in my era, most would have retired.
MerciSF: What do you hope to convey through this Laver Cup?
Yannick Noah: Sure, it’s about competition, but it’s also about passion. Being here is a chance to show that tennis is accessible, that it can bring people together beyond the matches. That’s the energy I want to share.
MerciSF: The official kickoff is today at McLaren Park, with local fans and community members getting the chance to play with you and Roger Federer. How meaningful is this for you?
Yannick Noah: It’s very special and reminds me of my early days in Cameroon. When I was eight, I played at a clinic with my hero, Arthur Ashe, who inspired me greatly. Today, for these kids, playing with Roger Federer is a dream come true. What matters most is what we can give back to others, not just what we achieve on the court. It’s a real pleasure to share this moment with Roger, who is so committed to giving back to the community.
MerciSF: Your impressions of San Francisco?
Yannick Noah: I just arrived yesterday and the schedule is packed, but I’ll be back to really enjoy San Francisco. And this time, I’ll at least try a self-driving taxi!
Thank you, Yannick! Let’s go Team Europe!
