Corey Gauff, father of world No. 2 Coco Gauff, delivered an emotional tribute highlighting how Serena Williams’ greatness ignited his daughter’s tennis dreams at age five. In a Rolex YouTube video titled “Rolex presents: Coco Gauff – Game Changer,” released May 19, 2025, Corey recalled watching Serena win the 2010 Australian Open against Justine Henin. “I remember, she’s about five or six, watching the Australian Open and Serena wins. I said, ‘She’s going to be the GOAT.’ Coco asked, ‘What is the GOAT?’ I said, ‘Greatest Of All Time.’ She said, ‘I want to be a GOAT too,’” he shared. This moment prompted Corey and his wife, Candi, to buy Coco her first racket, setting her on the path to stardom.[
Corey emphasized Serena’s role as a catalyst, noting her dominance and confidence provided Coco a template for success. “Serena wasn’t just a champion; she gave Coco belief,” he said, per Marca. This inspiration fueled Coco’s journey, from her 2019 Wimbledon breakout at 15 to her 2023 US Open title, making her the first American teenager to win it since Serena in 1999. Coco herself has acknowledged Serena’s impact, stating at the 2023 US Open, “They’re the reason why I have this trophy today,” crediting the Williams sisters for making her dream believable despite the sport’s lack of Black representation.[](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/tennis/coco-gauff-serena-venus-williams-30906701)
The Rolex film underscores Coco’s discipline and family support, with Corey’s vision mirroring Richard Williams’ for Serena and Venus. Fans on X, like @MSports_all, celebrated the narrative, calling Coco’s journey “inspiring.” As Coco prepares for the 2025 French Open, aiming for her second Grand Slam, Corey’s tribute highlights how Serena’s legacy continues to shape her ambition and resilience on the red clay of Roland Garros.
