Coco Gauff recently reflected on the influence that Venus Williams has had on her, especially regarding her choice to wear braids on the court. Venus famously wore her hair in beaded braids during her early years on the WTA tour, creating a unique and memorable image. While this hairstyle was initially celebrated, it also sparked controversy, especially at the 1999 Australian Open. During that tournament, Venus was penalized with a point deduction in her quarterfinal match because her beads came undone mid-match—a ruling that highlighted the bias and lack of acceptance for Black cultural expression in tennis at the time. For Gauff, Venus’s choice to embrace her culture so openly was trailblazing, and it continues to resonate with her today.
Gauff, now a World No. 3 and reigning US Open champion, has often spoken about her admiration for Venus Williams. She grew up watching the legendary player and was inspired by both her on-court performance and her unapologetic style. When recently asked by *The National* about Venus’s impact, particularly her hairstyle choice, Gauff was open about how meaningful it was for her. She shared, “Obviously, I’m someone who wears braids a lot, and seeing that she [Venus Williams] was able to do that 30 years ago, maybe where the space wasn’t as receptive of this type of hair, is important.” Gauff’s choice to wear braids is a tribute to Venus’s legacy, honoring a woman who was willing to stand out and face potential criticism in order to express herself fully.
Beyond their shared hairstyles, Gauff admires Venus’s broader contributions to the sport and society. Venus, along with her sister Serena, broke barriers not only in tennis but also in championing issues like prize money equality, racial equality, and gender equality. Gauff hopes to carry forward this legacy and spoke passionately about her desire to emulate Venus’s impact both within and beyond tennis. “Just her legacy, I hope to do half of what she’s done, not only just in tennis, but in prize money equality, women’s equality, racial equality, all of that. She’s someone that I look up to a lot when it comes to that,” Gauff explained. Venus’s dedication to advocating for these issues has inspired Gauff to not only aim high in her career but also to use her platform for greater social good.
Interestingly, it was a young Coco Gauff who famously defeated Venus Williams at Wimbledon in 2019, marking the beginning of Gauff’s journey into the international spotlight. At just 15 years old, Gauff stunned the world by defeating the seven-time Grand Slam champion in the first round, a result that underscored her immense potential and poise. The teenager displayed an extraordinary level of maturity, both in her gameplay and in her demeanor. After the match, she tearfully thanked Venus at the net, saying, “Thank you for everything you’ve done. I wouldn’t be here without you.” It was an emotional moment that showcased the powerful impact Venus had on her and the profound respect she held for the woman who paved the way for young Black girls like herself in tennis.
That victory over Venus was a turning point for Gauff. It not only boosted her career but also set a tone for her own aspirations and the type of influence she wants to have on future generations. She has since become a role model for young players and has often spoken out on social and racial justice issues, much like her idol Venus. Gauff’s path has been deeply influenced by Venus’s legacy, and she seems intent on carrying that torch forward.
Fast forward to today, and Gauff is a key contender at the WTA Finals in 2024, where she’s hoping to cap off an extraordinary season. She opened the tournament with a win over her compatriot and doubles partner Jessica Pegula, proving her resilience and skill under pressure. But now, Gauff faces a formidable opponent in World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion and one of her biggest rivals on the tour. The match-up is set to be an intense showdown, as Gauff seeks to establish herself firmly among the elite of women’s tennis.
Reflecting on her journey, it’s clear that Gauff’s admiration for Venus has shaped not only her style but also her approach to the game and her aspirations for the future. Venus’s influence extends beyond fashion choices; it’s about standing proudly in one’s identity and using one’s platform to drive meaningful change. For Gauff, Venus’s boldness and activism serve as a powerful example, reinforcing her commitment to social causes and equality within the sport.
In many ways, Gauff’s trajectory mirrors that of Venus Williams in her early years, but with the added benefit of Venus’s trailblazing path to guide her. From their shared hairstyles to their shared values, the connection between the two players is a testament to the lasting impact that one athlete can have on another, transcending generations. As Gauff continues to climb the ranks in professional tennis, she does so with a deep appreciation for those who came before her, understanding that her own success is part of a larger legacy. In every match, and with every step she takes in her career, Gauff is not only playing for herself but also for those who might follow in her footsteps, much like she once followed in Venus’s.