Nothing adds to the thrill of a tennis match quite like the roar of an electrified crowd. For Coco Gauff, those cheers have become a familiar soundtrack to her matches, whether it’s in Beijing—where fans surprise her with thoughtful gifts—or at the WTA Finals, where she’s signed sneakers and handed out hugs.
But when the match is over and she steps off the court, life doesn’t exactly return to normal.
Speaking with Tennis Channel at the Stuttgart Open, Gauff revealed that being recognized in public can still feel a little awkward—despite her global success.
“Sometimes people recognize me quickly, and other times it’s like someone stares, then I hear, ‘Oh my god, is that Coco?’ It can feel kind of awkward. I usually just keep walking. I mean, what do you say? ‘Yeah, that’s me,’” she shared with a laugh.
At just 21 years old, Gauff holds an impressive résumé: US Open champion, WTA Finals winner, World No. 2 in singles, and former No. 1 in doubles. She’s also amassed nearly two million Instagram followers. But at her core, she’s still adjusting to what fame feels like—especially outside the U.S.
“It always surprises me when I get recognized in other countries. I expect it in the U.S., but I went to the mall today and got noticed, and I just wasn’t expecting that.”
Rising Star, Global Favorite
Gauff’s ascent began in 2019 when, at just 15, she stunned Venus Williams at Wimbledon. From there, the wins kept coming—US Open juniors finalist in 2017, French Open junior champion in 2018, and major titles on the pro tour, including her 2023 US Open victory.
As of April 2025, she holds nine WTA singles titles and nine in doubles, including the 2024 French Open. Yet even with all her accolades, it’s the moments with fans that leave the biggest mark.
One memorable encounter happened after a tough loss at Indian Wells. Gauff grabbed a bite at In-N-Out for the first time (rating it a “solid 8/10,” though the fries needed “more crisp”). There, she met the Rowley family—superfans who paid for her meal and left her a handwritten note:
“Thanks for being an amazing role model… You were one heck of a fighter tonight. We sure love you!”
Gauff shared the moment on Instagram, writing,
“Human connections like this mean a lot, especially after a tough loss.”
Cheering Loud, Cheering Right
At last year’s French Open, she noticed a group of young boys under 12 cheering passionately on Court Suzanne Lenglen. “They were so loud—and respectful to my opponent. I actually enjoyed that,” she said.
These little moments stick with her. Whether it’s kids in Paris, fans in China, or a family in California, Gauff recognizes the special bond she shares with her supporters.
“I started on tour at 15, and I went from all positive feedback to now dealing with pressure and negative comments after losses,” she admitted. “It’s the good people—the positive ones—who keep me going.”
Next Up: Stuttgart Showdown
With a quarterfinal clash against Jasmine Paolini at the Stuttgart Open looming, fans are eager to see if Gauff can carry their cheers to another tournament win—and maybe even her first title of the season.
What do you think?
Is Coco Gauff redefining what athlete-fan connections can look like in modern sports? Share your thoughts in the comments!
