Coco Gauff’s star power extends far beyond the tennis court. While the 19-year-old American phenom has captured global attention with her extraordinary skills and impressive achievements in the sport, she’s proving to be equally talented off the court. Recently, Gauff delighted her family and fans with a heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration, showing a different side of herself—one that includes culinary prowess and a hidden musical talent. This celebration wasn’t just about the feast; it became a stage for Gauff’s multifaceted personality, reflecting her warmth, charisma, and deep admiration for music, particularly the work of pop icon Rihanna.
A Milestone Achieved: Independence and Family Ties
At the beginning of the year, Gauff expressed her desire to embark on a new chapter of her life by living independently. In October, she achieved this milestone by purchasing her first home in Delray Beach, Florida. Interestingly, she chose to remain close to her family, reflecting the strong bonds she shares with her loved ones. This proximity allowed her to host a memorable Thanksgiving celebration, marking her first attempt at hosting a “Cousinsgiving” in her new home. The event was a blend of warmth, tradition, and personal flair, making it a special occasion for all involved.
Gauff’s cooking skills took center stage as she prepared a sweet potato pie, showcasing a talent that few fans had seen before. Sharing a snippet of her culinary adventure on Instagram, she wrote, “My first time hosting ‘cousins/friendsgiving.’ Everyone made something. Made sweet potato pie for the first time, lol. This is the only pic I have of it.” The post quickly resonated with her followers, who were thrilled to see this down-to-earth side of the tennis star.
A Star Performance: Gauff the Singer
While the delicious food was a highlight, the real showstopper came in the form of Gauff’s musical performance. In a now-viral TikTok video, the WTA star can be seen with her two cousins, each holding microphones and grooving to Rihanna’s hit song “Kiss It Better.” Gauff’s passionate singing and radiant smile lit up the room, while the background clapping underscored the joy shared by the entire family. It was a rare and intimate glimpse into her life, one that showcased her deep love for music and her admiration for Rihanna.
Gauff’s connection to Rihanna runs deep. Two years ago, when Rihanna released “Lift Me Up” as a tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, Gauff was among the first to express her excitement on social media. She praised the singer’s heartfelt gesture, demonstrating a genuine appreciation for Rihanna’s artistry and compassion. This admiration resurfaced earlier this year when Gauff was asked to choose between having dinner with Rihanna or Beyoncé. Without hesitation, she chose Rihanna, explaining, “I’m going to go with Rihanna, just because I would love to hear how she started Fenty Beauty. It was one of the first makeup brands to provide a full shade range of foundation for all skin tones.” Her response highlighted not only Rihanna’s influence but also Gauff’s awareness of cultural and social issues, such as inclusivity in the beauty industry.
Balancing Fun and Focus: Preparing for the 2025 Season
Despite enjoying her off-season to the fullest, Gauff’s dedication to her sport remains unwavering. Shortly after the Thanksgiving celebration, she shared an Instagram story that showed her back in training mode. In the photo, Gauff is seen wearing a mask and running on a treadmill. The caption, “first day back,” was a clear message to her fans: the holiday festivities might be over, but her commitment to excellence is stronger than ever.
Her return to training is significant as she prepares for the upcoming 2025 season. Last year, Gauff started the season with a promising win at the ASB Classic in New Zealand, but her momentum was hampered by service and backhand errors that affected her performance in key tournaments. However, she made a remarkable comeback during the Asian Swing, securing a grand victory at the China Open. This was followed by an even more impressive achievement: her first-ever WTA Finals title. These victories not only underscored her resilience but also marked her evolution as a player capable of overcoming setbacks and emerging stronger.
Beyond Tennis: Values and Gratitude
Gauff’s Thanksgiving celebration was more than just a festive gathering; it was a reflection of her values and character. By hosting her family and friends, she demonstrated a deep sense of gratitude and love—qualities that have been pillars of strength in her journey. Her ability to balance the demands of a professional tennis career with personal moments of joy and connection speaks volumes about her maturity and grounded nature.
This balance between ambition and humility is what makes Gauff a role model for so many. She’s not just a tennis star; she’s a young woman navigating the complexities of fame, family, and personal growth with grace and authenticity. Whether she’s serving aces on the court, whipping up a sweet potato pie in the kitchen, or singing her heart out to a Rihanna song, Coco Gauff continues to inspire and captivate those around her. As she gears up for the 2025 season, fans can look forward to seeing not just an athlete at the top of her game, but a multifaceted individual who embodies passion, talent, and a profound appreciation for life’s simple joys.