In the whirlwind of professional tennis, where powerful serves and lightning-fast rallies dominate the spotlight, Coco Gauff recently paused to share a lighthearted moment with her fans, revealing a charming tidbit about her identity. The 21-year-old American tennis sensation, known for her infectious energy and fierce competitiveness, took to social media to drop a humorous bombshell: “The way 99% of people don’t know my real name.” This cheeky comment, paired with a meme that playfully suggested iconic nicknames can overshadow legal ones, sparked laughter and curiosity among her followers. But what’s the story behind the name that has become synonymous with tennis excellence?
The revelation came through a repost on Gauff’s Instagram story, where she engaged with a meme from a popular humor account. The original post featured a caption joking about a grandmother whose nickname was so legendary that her real name remained a mystery. Gauff’s witty addition hinted at her own experience, where her public persona as “Coco” has eclipsed the name she was given at birth. For those unfamiliar, Gauff’s legal name is Cori—a detail that surprised many fans who have cheered her on as Coco since her meteoric rise to fame. “It’s funny how a name can stick,” Gauff has said in past interviews, reflecting on how her family’s affectionate nickname became her global brand. “Coco is who I am to the world, but Cori is still there, holding it all together.”
This playful interaction underscores Gauff’s ability to connect with her audience beyond the court. At just 15, she burst onto the scene by defeating Venus Williams at Wimbledon, earning a place in tennis history as a prodigy with boundless potential. Since then, her journey has been a blend of triumphs and challenges. Her crowning achievement came in 2023 when she clinched the US Open title, becoming the youngest American woman in 25 years to claim the coveted trophy. The victory was a testament to her resilience, as she navigated the pressures of fame and the expectations of a nation hungry for a new tennis hero. “Winning the US Open was a dream, but it’s the moments off the court that keep me grounded,” Gauff shared in a recent interview, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity.
Yet, the 2025 season has brought its share of ups and downs for the young star. Entering the Miami Open as the third seed, Gauff faced a surprising defeat in the Round of 16, falling in straight sets to Poland’s Magda Linette. The loss marked a moment of reflection for Gauff, who has been open about the ebbs and flows of her career. “Some days you’re on top, and others you’re learning,” she said post-match, her words carrying the wisdom of a veteran despite her youth. Fans admire this candor, which pairs seamlessly with her off-court charisma—whether she’s joking about her name or showcasing her vibrant personality in brand collaborations.
Speaking of collaborations, Gauff recently starred in a dynamic campaign with Carol’s Daughter, a brand celebrating natural hair care. In a vibrant Instagram video, she flaunted a range of stunning hairstyles, each reflecting her bold and multifaceted identity. The caption read, “Let your curls spring back stronger,” a fitting metaphor for Gauff’s approach to both her career and her personal growth. From braids to loose curls, she radiated confidence, reminding fans that her influence extends far beyond tennis. “I love embracing every part of who I am,” Gauff noted, highlighting her role as a cultural icon for young women of color navigating their own journeys.
The name “Coco” may have started as a family nickname, but it has grown into a symbol of inspiration. In her early days, tournament draw sheets listed her as Cori, a nod to the girl who dreamed big in Delray Beach, Florida. Her parents, Corey and Candi, instilled in her a work ethic and a love for the game that still drive her today. “My family called me Coco from the start—it’s a name that feels like home,” Gauff once explained, offering a glimpse into the warmth behind her public persona. That warmth resonates with fans, who chant “Coco” in stadiums worldwide, unaware that Cori is the name etched in her official records.
As Gauff continues to evolve, her playful revelation about her name serves as a reminder of her humanity in a world that often places athletes on pedestals. She’s not just a Grand Slam champion or a global brand ambassador—she’s a young woman who laughs at memes, embraces her roots, and navigates life’s highs and lows with grace. Whether she’s smashing forehands or sharing a joke online, Coco—or rather, Cori—Gauff remains a force of authenticity. As she prepares for the next chapter of her season, fans are left wondering: what other surprises does this tennis superstar have in store? One thing’s for sure—whatever name she goes by, the world will be watching.