‘Much More Than My Sport’- Coco Gauff Unveils Her Religious Side as She Opens Up on Life Beyond Tennis
Coco Gauff has never shied away from sharing how important her faith is in shaping both her tennis career and her personal life.
Back in 2019, she revealed to The New York Times that she and her father always say a prayer before each match—a tradition she’s kept since she was eight. But for Gauff, it’s never been just about praying for victory. “It’s about safety—for me and my opponent,” she said. A regular attendee at the Saint John Missionary Baptist Church and a choir member, Gauff has long made it clear that her faith is central to her identity.
Fast forward to a recent interview with Vogue, and Gauff once again opened up about the deeper role her spirituality plays. “Sometimes you feel like your identity is tied to your results,” she admitted. “But when I focus on my faith, I remember—I’m more than just my sport. Even if I never win another match, there’s still so much in life I’m grateful for.”
Just a month before her breakthrough US Open win in 2023, Gauff triumphed at the Cincinnati Masters and gave a heartfelt thanks:
“I’d like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It’s been a lot of nights crying, feeling lost. I still have so much to learn, but He’s covered me through it all.”
She also reflected on her earlier heartbreak at the 2022 French Open final, saying, “God puts you through trials. That loss made this victory even sweeter.”
Beyond the court, Gauff has embraced spiritual practices that help her stay grounded. She revealed she keeps two journals: one for scripture and one for her personal thoughts. “I read the Bible every day and write the night before matches,” she shared. “It helps hold me accountable for my emotions and mindset.”
In December 2024, she was seen attending church with her mom and grandmother, posting a joyful photo in front of a Christmas tree.
In January 2025, Gauff talked about the value of staying humble, crediting her upbringing in Delray Beach and her church community. “My grandma sent me a volunteer card I filled out at 10 years old. I’ve always been involved in my community—it keeps me grounded.”
Despite facing criticism over her recent performance slump, particularly her serving struggles, Gauff remains optimistic. Heading into the Stuttgart Open, she had racked up 121 double faults across 18 matches—the most in the WTA this season.
But she isn’t discouraged. “When you’re working on something, the results don’t always show immediately,” she said. “I’m trying to serve better, return better. It’s a process—and perfection doesn’t happen overnight.”
Gauff will face Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska in the round of 64 at the Madrid Open later today. With a 2-0 head-to-head lead, all eyes are on whether she can find her rhythm on clay.
Serena Williams’ former coach, Rick Macci, remains confident in her abilities:
“Coco will be fine. Talent doesn’t disappear. This journey has its ups and downs—but she’s not done yet.”
Can Gauff turn things around and make it 3-0 against Yastremska? Fans are watching closely.
