Coco Gauff | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 30, 2025

Who is Coco Gauff?

Coco Gauff, born Cori Dionne Gauff on March 13, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, is a professional tennis player who has rapidly gained recognition as one of the sport's brightest young stars. She first captured the world's attention at just 15 years old when she defeated five-time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams in the first round of the prestigious tournament in 2019. This unexpected victory sparked a wave of enthusiasm known as "Cocomania," illustrating her immense potential and talent. Gauff's journey from a promising junior player to a Grand Slam champion culminated in her triumph at the 2023 U.S. Open, where she made history as the youngest American woman to win the tournament since Serena Williams.

Gauff's background is steeped in athleticism; her father, Corey, played Division I basketball, while her mother, Candi, competed in gymnastics and track and field. This strong foundation laid the groundwork for her tennis journey, which began at the age of six. With dedication and support from her family, she honed her skills and quickly ascended through the ranks of junior tennis, eventually collaborating with esteemed coaches such as Patrick Mouratoglou. As of now, Gauff is recognized not only for her remarkable on-court achievements but also for her advocacy on important social issues, positioning her as both a talented athlete and a role model for aspiring young players worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Cori Dionne Gauff, popularly known as Coco Gauff, was born on March 13, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida. Growing up in a household steeped in athleticism, Gauff was influenced by her parents, both of whom were accomplished athletes. Her father, Corey Gauff, played Division I basketball at Georgia State University, while her mother, Candi, was a gymnast and also participated in Division I track and field at Florida State University. This strong athletic foundation prompted her parents to encourage Coco's early affinity for sports, leading her to pick up a tennis racket at the tender age of six.

As a child, Gauff spent her initial years in Georgia, where her mother worked as a teacher and her father in pharmaceuticals. However, to better support her budding tennis career, her parents made the decision to return to Delray Beach, Florida, where Candi began homeschooling Coco. This shift allowed Gauff to dedicate more time to her training. Her father took on the role of her coach, instilling a philosophy of becoming a well-rounded athlete by also engaging in gymnastics, soccer, and track, which would enhance her physical abilities on the court.

Junior Tennis Champion and Career Start

Coco Gauff's journey into professional tennis began at a remarkably young age. By 6 years old, she was already wielding a racket, demonstrating her affinity for the sport, greatly influenced by her athletic family. Gauff's father, Corey, was not only a Division I basketball player but also her primary coach, instilling a sense of discipline and passion in her from the very beginning. The family made sacrifices to ensure that Coco received the best training, relocating back to Delray Beach, Florida, where her mother homeschooled her to allow for rigorous tennis training. This unique upbringing laid the groundwork for her exceptional talent to flourish.

Gauff's early tennis career was characterized by significant milestones that hinted at her future stardom. By the age of 10, she was already training in France under Patrick Mouratoglou, known for coaching Serena Williams. In 2014, she clinched the United States Tennis Association Clay Court National 12-under title, further establishing her as a rising star. However, it was her victory at the 2018 French Open Junior Championship that truly marked her ascent to competitive tennis. The combination of her precocious talent, relentless work ethic, and significant achievements in junior tennis set the stage for her meteoric rise to fame in the professional realm.

Professional Tennis Career: 2023 U.S. Open Champion

Coco Gauff's ascent in professional tennis has been meteoric, showcasing her immense talent and determination. After making her WTA debut in March 2019 at the Miami Open, Gauff quickly garnered attention by defeating tennis legends and making deep runs in prestigious tournaments. By the end of 2019, she became the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Wimbledon since 1991, sparking “Cocomania.” Her first WTA title came in October of that year at the Linz Open, where she triumphed as a "lucky loser," cementing her status as a rising star in women's tennis.

Fast forward to 2023, Gauff's hard work paid off as she clinched her first Grand Slam title at the U.S. Open. Entering the tournament with confidence after defeating world No. 1 Iga Swiatek, she impressed audiences by winning six straight matches against top-tier opponents. In a thrilling final, Gauff defeated Aryna Sabalenka in three sets on September 9, becoming the youngest American woman to win the U.S. Open singles title since Serena Williams in 1999. This victory not only marked a pivotal moment in her career but also solidified her position among the elite in women's tennis.

Olympics Participation and Achievements

Coco Gauff is set to represent the United States at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, a significant milestone in her young yet illustrious tennis career. After missing the postponed 2020 Tokyo Games due to a positive COVID test, Gauff's dream of competing on the Olympic stage is finally within reach. As the top-ranked American player and No. 5 in the world, she has been given the honor of being the female flag bearer for Team USA during the opening ceremony, a role she will share with NBA superstar LeBron James. This significant moment highlights her rapid ascent in the sport and mirrors her accomplishments as a trailblazer for young athletes.

In addition to her Olympic participation, Gauff's tennis journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, including her triumph as the 2023 U.S. Open champion. This victory not only established her as a leading player in women's tennis but also made her the youngest American woman to win the tournament since Serena Williams in 1999. Gauff's impressive skill set, tenacity, and maturity allow her to excel in both singles and doubles competitions, and she is anticipated to compete in both formats at the Paris Games. Her accomplishments at such a young age not only inspire countless fans but also contribute to her growing legacy in the sport.

Personal Life: Boyfriend and Dating

Coco Gauff, the rising tennis star, has chosen to maintain a level of privacy regarding her personal relationships. However, she did open up about her romantic life in an April 2024 interview with Time, revealing that she has been in a relationship for more than a year. Gauff has opted not to disclose her boyfriend’s name, but she mentioned that he hails from Atlanta and does not play tennis. Instead, he has aspirations in the creative arts, applying to music school and aiming for a career as an actor, which provides her with a refreshing perspective outside the world of sports.

In discussing her relationship, Gauff emphasized the importance of having someone outside of tennis to lean on for support. She noted that this connection allows her to balance her intense professional life with a personal side that is more relatable and grounded. Gauff hinted that her boyfriend may accompany her to some of her tournaments in the United States during the 2024 season, indicating a desire to share her experiences with him as she navigates her career. This unassuming yet meaningful relationship seems to play a significant role in her life as she continues to rise in the competitive world of tennis.

Net Worth and Earning: $3.5 million

As of February 2024, Coco Gauff's net worth is estimated to be around $3.5 million, with some sources suggesting even higher figures. Her financial status has seen a remarkable surge, especially following her breakthrough performances on the tennis circuit. In 2019, Gauff earned $538,103 in prize money, which represented the beginning of her financial ascent as a professional athlete. Her earnings grew above the $1 million mark in 2021, signaling her impact and rising star power within the sport.

By 2023, her earnings skyrocketed following her victory at the U.S. Open, where she took home an impressive $3 million. Gauff's career prize money has exceeded $15.1 million as of July 2024, making her one of the top earners in women’s tennis. Moreover, her endorsement deals with major brands such as New Balance, Barilla, and Bose have significantly contributed to her wealth, making her the highest-paid female athlete of 2023 with estimated earnings of $22.7 million. Gauff's blend of talent and marketability continues to elevate her profile both on and off the court.

FAQs

Who is Coco Gauff?

Coco Gauff, whose full name is Cori Dionne Gauff, is a professional tennis player from Delray Beach, Florida. Born on March 13, 2004, Gauff gained prominence as one of the brightest young talents in women's tennis. She rose to fame after defeating Venus Williams at Wimbledon in 2019, sparking what fans dubbed "Cocomania." Gauff is known for her remarkable athleticism, powerful playing style, and determined spirit on the court.

What are some of Coco Gauff's significant achievements?

Coco Gauff achieved her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 U.S. Open, becoming the youngest American woman to win the tournament since Serena Williams in 1999. She has also won multiple WTA titles, reached the finals of prestigious tournaments, and represented the United States in international competitions, including the Olympics. Gauff's groundbreaking performance has made her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.

When did Coco Gauff start playing tennis?

Coco Gauff began her tennis journey at the age of six. Encouraged by her athletic parents, she quickly showed immense talent and dedication to the sport. Her early training included working with various coaches, but her father, Corey Gauff, played a crucial role as her primary coach, instilling in her the importance of being a well-rounded athlete by encouraging her to participate in different sports.

What is Coco Gauff's current ranking?

As of July 22, 2024, Coco Gauff is ranked No. 2 in women's singles on the WTA tour, marking the highest ranking of her career. She has also achieved a career-high ranking of No. 1 in women's doubles after successful collaborations with her doubles partner Jessica Pegula. Gauff's impressive performance in various tournaments has solidified her position among the elite in women's tennis.

How has Coco Gauff been involved in activism?

Coco Gauff has utilized her platform to advocate for social justice and climate change awareness. She has spoken at protests and used her social media presence to raise awareness on important issues. Gauff's activism stems from her belief in speaking out against injustice, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the tennis court.

What does Coco Gauff do off the court?

Outside of tennis, Coco Gauff enjoys sharing her life with her 1.7 million Instagram followers and over 630,000 followers on TikTok. She values her privacy regarding personal relationships but has mentioned being in a long-term relationship with a non-tennis player who aspires to work in music and acting. Gauff balances her personal and professional life while remaining dedicated to her career.

What are Coco Gauff's future plans?

Coco Gauff aims to continue her growth as a tennis player and compete at the highest levels, including the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, where she has been named the female flag bearer for Team USA. Additionally, she hopes to maintain her momentum in both singles and doubles competitions while still engaging in activism and inspiring the next generation of athletes.