At just 21 years old, Coco Gauff has already carved out a legacy that extends far beyond the tennis court. The young star from Delray Beach, Florida, has not only risen to global fame as a tennis prodigy but also as a proud advocate for her heritage and a vocal supporter of the Black community. Her journey, marked by a deep connection to her roots and a commitment to uplifting others, continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Gauff’s story began in the sun-soaked courts of Delray Beach, where she honed her skills as a child. It was there, in her hometown, that she first dreamed of greatness, inspired by her family’s resilience and the community that rallied around her. Her meteoric rise began at age 15, when she stunned the tennis world by defeating Venus Williams at Wimbledon in 2019 as a wildcard entrant. That victory propelled her into the spotlight, but Gauff has never forgotten the foundation that shaped her. “Being here reminds me of how I started tennis and reminds me of my roots,” she recently said, reflecting on the significance of her hometown. Her latest venture—a collaboration with New Balance to release the “Delray Coco” sneaker—pays homage to the community that continues to support her, win or lose.
The “Delray Coco” sneaker, launched on her 21st birthday in March 2025, is more than a fashion statement; it’s a celebration of her identity. The campaign for the shoe, narrated by Gauff’s grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom, tells a powerful story of perseverance. Odom, a trailblazer in her own right, was the first Black student to integrate Delray Beach’s public schools in 1961, facing discrimination and exclusion with unwavering strength. Though a talented sprinter and basketball captain, Odom was denied the opportunity to compete at Seacrest High School because of her race, a barrier that shattered her dreams of a college sports scholarship. Gauff draws inspiration from her grandmother’s courage, proudly carrying forward her family’s legacy. “We wouldn’t put [anything] on you that hasn’t been done [already],” Gauff said, emphasizing the weight of her family’s history and her determination to honor it.
Beyond her personal achievements, Gauff has emerged as a champion for social justice, particularly for the Black community. During Black History Month in 2025, she donated $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). “My family has a deep-rooted history with HBCUs, going back to my great, great grandfather,” she shared, underscoring the personal significance of her contribution. Looking ahead, the Coco Gauff Scholarship Program, set to launch in May 2025, will provide scholarships to aspiring tennis players through the UNCF, ensuring that future generations have access to opportunities she values deeply.
Gauff’s advocacy extends to her public platform, where she fearlessly addresses issues of faith and identity. After her runner-up finish at the Madrid Open in early May 2025, she spoke candidly about her Christian faith, despite online criticism. “I’ve said it in every speech. I know there’s like a whole discourse about it online, but I’ve done it every speech that I’ve been on tour,” she declared during a press conference before the Italian Open. Her openness about her beliefs, coupled with her commitment to her community, has earned her admiration from fans who appreciate her authenticity. One supporter wrote on social media, “The most adorable person award goes to… Coco Gauff,” while another praised her humility: “Love a girl that can laugh at her own mistakes.”
On the court, Gauff’s 2025 season has been a mix of triumphs and challenges. She reached the final of the Madrid Open, only to fall to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a hard-fought match. Days later, she faced another setback, losing to Jasmine Paolini in the Italian Open final. Yet, Gauff’s resilience shines through. Her commanding victory over Emma Raducanu in the Italian Open’s fourth round and a thrilling three-and-a-half-hour semifinal win against Qinwen Zheng showcased her tenacity. Even in lighter moments, like when she laughed off an on-court blunder—missing an overhead shot against Raducanu—Gauff’s ability to stay grounded endears her to fans.
Off the court, Gauff is taking bold steps to shape her future. In April 2025, she announced the launch of Coco Gauff Enterprises, a management firm that allows her to take greater control of her career as an athlete, entrepreneur, and changemaker. This move, which includes a partnership with WME, marks a new chapter for the young star, who is determined to forge her own path.
Gauff’s story is one of talent, heart, and purpose. From the courts of Delray Beach to the global stage, she remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, honoring her roots while uplifting the Black community and beyond. As she continues to compete, create, and advocate, Coco Gauff is proving that her impact will be felt for generations to come.
# Coco Gauff: Honoring Roots and Championing Community
## A Star Born in Delray Beach
At just 21, Coco Gauff has become a global tennis sensation, but her heart remains in Delray Beach, Florida, where she first picked up a racket. Her stunning defeat of Venus Williams at Wimbledon in 2019 at age 15 catapulted her to fame, yet she stays connected to her roots. “Being here reminds me of how I started tennis and reminds me of my roots,” Gauff said, reflecting on her hometown’s enduring influence.
## A Tribute to Heritage
Gauff’s latest project, the “Delray Coco” sneaker with New Balance, launched on her 21st birthday in March 2025, celebrates her hometown. Narrated by her grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom—the first Black student to integrate Delray Beach’s public schools in 1961—the campaign highlights resilience. Odom faced racial barriers that denied her athletic dreams, yet her strength inspires Gauff. “We wouldn’t put [anything] on you that hasn’t been done [already],” Gauff said, honoring her family’s legacy.
## Advocating for the Black Community
Gauff’s commitment to social justice shines through her actions. In February 2025, she donated $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to support HBCUs, noting, “My family has a deep-rooted history with HBCUs, going back to my great, great grandfather.” Her Coco Gauff Scholarship Program, launching in May 2025, will provide scholarships to tennis students via UNCF, fostering opportunity for future generations.
## Faith and Resilience
A devout Christian, Gauff has faced online criticism for expressing her faith but remains steadfast. “I’ve said it in every speech. I know there’s like a whole discourse about it online, but I’ve done it every speech that I’ve been on tour,” she declared before the Italian Open in May 2025. Her authenticity resonates, with fans praising her humility: “Love a girl that can laugh at her own mistakes.”
## On-Court Tenacity
Gauff’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. She reached the Madrid Open final, falling to Aryna Sabalenka, and lost to Jasmine Paolini in the Italian Open final. Yet, her victories, like a dominant win over Emma Raducanu and a grueling semifinal against Qinwen Zheng, highlight her grit. Even a lighthearted blunder—missing an overhead shot—showcased her ability to laugh it off.
## A New Chapter
In April 2025, Gauff launched Coco Gauff Enterprises, partnering with WME to take control of her career. This move reflects her ambition to grow as an athlete, entrepreneur, and changemaker, ensuring her influence extends far beyond tennis.
## A Lasting Legacy
Coco Gauff’s journey is one of talent, heart, and purpose. From Delray Beach to the world stage, she honors her roots while championing the Black community, proving that her impact will resonate for years to come.
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