Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff is not only dominating the tennis world but is also making a statement in the realm of fashion. At just 19 years old, she graces the cover of Vogue Magazine in a story that delves into her relentless pursuit of perfection.
In the first-person account by Vogue writer, Abby Aguirre, Aguirre highlights some of Gauff’s most memorable moments to date starting with the moment that she captured the world’s attention at 15-years-old. By winning her first Grand Slam, Gauff became the youngest American to win the tournament since Serena Williams in 1999.
“I said, ‘Thank you for everything you’ve done,’ ” Aguirre recanted what the 19-year-old told the BBC after her win. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her. I told her she was so inspiring, and I’ve always wanted to tell her that but I’ve never had the guts to before.”
In the piece, Aguirre, who was in Cancún, Mexico with Gauff and her family before last season’s finals, continued with Gauff’s professional trajectory, highlighting her win at the US Open over Belarusian tennis star, Aryna Sabalenka. During the ceremony, this time around, the young phenom took a moment to thank her family for their support and training.
“My dad took me to this tournament, sitting right there watching Venus and Serena compete, so it’s really incredible to be on this stage,” Gauff said.
“Honestly, thank you to the people who didn’t believe in me. To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, you were really adding gas to it. And now I’m really burning so bright right now.”
Receiving her prize money and trophy from the legendary tennis star, Billie Jean King, Gauff took a moment to thank the activist, who has always fought for equal pay for women players. She addressed King saying, “Thank you, Billie, for fighting for this.” Gauff received a $3 million dollar prize purse.
And of course, Aguirre highlights one of Gauff’s most poignant statements about her drive towards success.
In a recent Time Magazine interview, Gauff told the publication that chasing that win, is like a “drug”.
“It was like a drug,” Gauff told the outlet of her journey towards winning the Grand Slam championship over Aryna Sabalenka at the U.S. Open final. “I’ve never felt anything like that.”
“That’s the motivation that drives me,” she continued. “I’m sure the ‘Face of Tennis’ and glitz and glam will come along with that. But I don’t really care about any of that. I really just care about how many of those major trophies I can get in my house.”
To read the Gauff’s interview in its entirety, click here. We have no doubt that this incredible young athlete will achieve the level of perfection that she seeks and more. She has a long way to go before retirement!
Photo: Coco Gauff Instagram
