Coco Gauff’s Passion for Music: A Lifeline Beyond Tennis
Coco Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion and one of tennis’s brightest stars, has always been open about the joys and challenges of her life on and off the court. While her incredible performances on the tennis court have earned her international acclaim, Gauff finds solace and inspiration in music—a passion she unapologetically embraces. Recently, the young WTA star took to social media to share her thoughts on her favorite music platform, Apple Music, and to playfully call out detractors of the service.
A Love Affair with Music
For Gauff, music is more than just background noise; it’s a companion that fuels her life and career. Whether she’s training, relaxing, or spending time with her loved ones, music plays a central role in keeping her motivated and grounded. Her playlists are as diverse as her game is dynamic, featuring artists like Beyoncé, Tyler, the Creator, and Frank Ocean.
Gauff’s partner, rapper Cordae, has likely influenced her already eclectic taste in music, but her love for the art form stretches beyond personal connections. It’s a source of comfort and joy, as she recently demonstrated by attending the Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival in Los Angeles. Gauff highlighted how music has become an integral part of her off-season, seamlessly blending relaxation with her passion for great tunes.
Apple Music: Gauff’s Platform of Choice
The young tennis star recently shared her Apple Music Wrap 2023, a feature that highlights a user’s top songs, artists, and listening habits throughout the year. Gauff revealed she spent an impressive 28,882 minutes on the platform, with her top artist being Frank Ocean. Her most-played songs and albums included works by Mk.gee, Tyler, the Creator, and Beyoncé’s album Cowboy Carter, which rounded out her top 10.
Not content with simply sharing her listening stats, Gauff used the opportunity to address the divide between Apple Music and Spotify users in a humorous and relatable way.
“Why is everyone an Apple Music hater??” Gauff wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “We get to see our top albums, top genres, have spatial audio, and get a monthly replay report on top of the yearly one. I like Spotify, but the fan base can’t stand to see an Apple Music screenshot. You would think I killed their dog, chile.”
Gauff’s comment not only highlighted the features she loves about Apple Music but also poked fun at the intensity of the rivalry between the two platforms’ users. Her playful jab resonated with her followers, showcasing her lighthearted and relatable personality.
Music as a Lifeline
For Gauff, music isn’t just a pastime—it’s a crucial aspect of her well-being and preparation as an athlete. She has often spoken about how music keeps her centered, particularly during grueling training sessions and high-pressure matches. Incorporating music into her exercise routines, she says, helps her maintain focus and find rhythm both physically and mentally.
The connection goes deeper than that, though. Gauff has mentioned that music serves as an emotional outlet and a source of strength during tough times. “It helps me stay calm and overcome setbacks,” she shared in a recent interview. Whether she’s celebrating a victory or processing a challenging defeat, music remains a steadfast presence in her life.
The Role of Music in Gauff’s Tennis Journey
2023 was a transformative year for Gauff, culminating in her stunning victory at the US Open. However, her journey to the top wasn’t without challenges. Music, she revealed, has been a constant companion, helping her navigate the highs and lows of professional tennis.
Her playlists reflect her moods and ambitions, with artists like Beyoncé and Frank Ocean offering both empowerment and introspection. Tyler, the Creator’s unique sound and experimental beats have also made a significant impact on Gauff, with the artist’s work frequently appearing in her top plays.
This blend of musical influences mirrors Gauff’s multifaceted personality—serious and focused on the court but fun-loving and expressive off it.
A Connection to Fans
By sharing her Apple Music stats and engaging in playful banter about music platforms, Gauff has once again shown her ability to connect with fans on a personal level. Her tweet, “Lol ya’ll probably don’t care but gonna share anyway,” reflects her authenticity and confidence, traits that have endeared her to the tennis world and beyond.
Gauff’s willingness to share snippets of her personal life, from her music preferences to her off-season activities, makes her a relatable figure for fans. Her openness not only humanizes her but also strengthens her bond with her supporters, who see her as more than just an athlete.
Looking Ahead
As Gauff continues to make waves in the tennis world, her passion for music will undoubtedly remain a vital part of her life. With a career that’s only just beginning and a personality that’s equal parts driven and down-to-earth, Gauff has proven that she’s not just a force on the court but a cultural icon in the making.
Her love for music offers a glimpse into the person behind the racket—a young woman who values creativity, connection, and self-expression. Whether she’s streaming Frank Ocean on Apple Music or attending music festivals during the off-season, Gauff’s relationship with music is a testament to the power of art to inspire, heal, and motivate.
The Universal Appeal of Music
Gauff’s story underscores the universal role that music plays in people’s lives, regardless of their profession or passions. For her, it’s a source of solace and joy; for her fans, it’s a reminder of the importance of finding what keeps us grounded.
Do you, like Coco Gauff, turn to music as a way to recharge and find balance? Share your favorite artists and playlists in the comments below!