For many professional athletes, the off-season offers a rare respite from the grueling demands of competitive sport. However, for players like Coco Gauff, true dedication knows no breaks. The 20-year-old tennis sensation is making headlines once again, not for taking it easy, but for seamlessly blending relaxation, family time, and intense training as she gears up for another demanding season. Gauff’s commitment to excellence, even during her time off, has delighted fans and reaffirmed her position as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
A Well-Deserved Break, But No Time to Waste
Gauff’s 2024 season ended on a high note. She clinched the prestigious WTA Finals title in Riyadh, capping off a remarkable year that saw her solidify her place among the world’s top players. Her performance throughout the season showcased not just her talent but also her tenacity, propelling her to the number three spot in the WTA rankings. After such an intense period, many would expect her to take a long, leisurely break. But Gauff’s mindset is different.
Following her WTA Finals victory, Gauff did take some time to unwind. She returned home to Florida, where she celebrated her success with a sumptuous seafood feast at her grandmother’s house. This was more than just a meal; it was a symbolic homecoming, a moment to reconnect with her roots and reflect on her achievements. She then traveled to Los Angeles for a well-earned vacation, where she attended the popular Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, hosted by rapper Tyler, the Creator, alongside her boyfriend, Jalen Sera. These glimpses into her personal life, shared through social media, highlighted a side of Gauff that fans love: a young woman who, despite her global fame, remains grounded and values simple pleasures.
Back to the Grind: No Off-Season for Champions
However, Gauff’s time away from the court was short-lived. In her latest social media update, she gave fans a glimpse of her return to intense training. Her Instagram story featured a collage of two photos showing her running on a treadmill while wearing a mask, likely indicating a form of high-intensity cardio or VO2 max training. The caption, “first day back,” was a simple yet powerful statement. It spoke volumes about her mindset—relaxation is important, but preparation is paramount.
This dedication is not new for Gauff, who has often emphasized the importance of physical conditioning in her game. The treadmill photo, while seemingly mundane, symbolizes the hard work that often goes unnoticed. Even during the festive season, when many athletes might choose to take it easy, Gauff is already laying the groundwork for the challenges that lie ahead.
Her immediate focus appears to be on defending her title at the 2025 ASB Classic in New Zealand. Having won the tournament in 2024, Gauff is determined to maintain her dominance and start the new season on a strong note. Her return to training, even amidst holiday celebrations, underscores this commitment. It’s a clear message to her competitors: Coco Gauff is not resting on her laurels.
Celebrating Milestones with Family
While Gauff’s professional dedication is commendable, her off-court life is equally inspiring. This year, she reached a significant personal milestone: buying her first home. In October, she shared this achievement with her followers on Instagram, posting, “Life update: bought a house a few months ago. Cheers to being a homeowner at 20. All glory to God.” The post was more than just a personal update; it was a reflection of her values. Gauff has often spoken about her faith, and this milestone was a testament to both her hard work and her gratitude.
The new home, located near her parents in Delray Beach, Florida, symbolizes more than just financial success. For Gauff, family is everything. Her Thanksgiving celebration this year was a perfect example. Hosting her first “cousins/friendsgiving” at her new home, Gauff prepared a sweet potato pie and banana bread, while her cousins contributed their own dishes. “My first time hosting ‘cousins/friendsgiving,’” she wrote, sharing a few candid photos. “Everyone made something.” These moments, shared on social media, offered a heartwarming glimpse into Gauff’s life off the court. They showed a young woman who, despite her fame and success, remains deeply connected to her family and traditions.
Faith, Focus, and the Future
Gauff’s social media updates often include references to her faith, and her recent posts are no exception. Her message, “All glory to God,” after buying her house, reflects a mindset that extends beyond tennis. For Gauff, success is not just about titles and rankings; it’s about gratitude, family, and staying true to her values. This grounded perspective is likely one of the reasons she has managed to handle the pressures of professional tennis with such grace.
As she prepares for the 2025 season, Gauff’s focus remains unwavering. Her return to training, even during the off-season, is a testament to her determination. She knows that success in tennis requires more than just talent—it demands hard work, discipline, and a relentless drive to improve.
Can She Reach New Heights in 2025?
Looking ahead, Gauff’s goals for the upcoming season are clear. She wants to defend her ASB Classic title and continue her climb in the WTA rankings. But more than that, she wants to address the weaknesses in her game and challenge for major titles. Her performance in 2024, capped by the WTA Finals victory, showed that she has the talent and the mental toughness to compete at the highest level. Now, it’s about building on that success.
The question remains: Can she reach even greater heights in 2025? Given her work ethic, family support, and unwavering faith, there’s every reason to believe she can. Gauff’s story is still being written, and if her recent actions are any indication, the next chapter promises to be even more exciting.
For now, fans can only watch and wait. But one thing is certain: Coco Gauff’s journey is far from over, and she’s just getting started.