Coco Gauff, one of tennis’ brightest young stars, has once again captured attention—not just on the court but also with her off-season training regimen and light-hearted moments with her team. As the 2025 season looms, Gauff has been diligently preparing to build on her stellar 2024, a year that saw her claim major titles and solidify her place among the elite in women’s tennis. While her on-court achievements are impressive, her recent social media interactions and insights into her coaching team reveal a determined yet down-to-earth athlete who continues to grow and adapt.
### Pre-Season Grind: Gauff’s Intense Training Sessions
Following a triumphant end to her 2024 campaign, Gauff has wasted no time shifting her focus to pre-season training. One of her recent Instagram stories showcased a comical moment with her coach, Jean-Christophe Faurel, during an intense gym session. Gauff, known for her transparency and humor, shared a video of herself lifting an impressive 245 pounds for five reps. However, the highlight of the video wasn’t just her strength but Faurel unintentionally stepping into the frame. With characteristic wit, Gauff captioned the post, “245 for 5. Lol JC tryna block the video with his 🍑🤣,” turning a serious workout into a relatable moment for her fans.
This glimpse into her training routine underscores the physical preparation required to compete at the highest level. Strength training, cardio sessions, and meticulous attention to fitness are all integral to Gauff’s regimen, ensuring she maintains her edge against top competitors. The use of a metabolic mask during her treadmill workouts also suggests a focus on improving cardiovascular efficiency, a crucial factor in enduring long matches.
### Reflecting on a Stellar 2024 Season
Gauff’s rigorous pre-season efforts come on the heels of an extraordinary 2024 season. She ended the year on a high note by clinching her second career WTA 1000 title at the China Open, a significant milestone that demonstrated her growing consistency and ability to perform under pressure. This was followed by an even more remarkable achievement: winning her maiden WTA Finals title in Riyadh. By doing so, she became the youngest player to win the prestigious year-end championship since Maria Sharapova and the youngest American since Serena Williams—a comparison that speaks volumes about her trajectory.
These victories were not merely about adding trophies to her cabinet but represented a culmination of hard work, strategic adjustments, and mental fortitude. Gauff’s journey through the WTA Finals showcased her ability to navigate high-stakes matches, reinforcing her status as a top contender for future Grand Slam titles.
### Off-Court Balance: Music, Family, and Festivities
While Gauff’s professional life is marked by relentless training and competition, she also emphasizes the importance of balance. After concluding her season, she took time to unwind, attending the Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival in Los Angeles. The festival, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, provided a much-needed break from the rigors of the tennis circuit. She then made a stop in Boston for some engagements with her sponsor, New Balance, hinting at exciting projects in the pipeline.
Embracing the holiday spirit, Gauff hosted her first “cousins/friendsgiving” at her home, sharing her love for baking with sweet potato pie and banana bread. These moments reflect a grounded personality who values family, friends, and simple joys—a side that resonates with her growing fanbase.
### Coaching Changes and Strategic Growth
One of the most significant developments in Gauff’s career this year was the restructuring of her coaching team. Following a disappointing fourth-round exit at the 2024 US Open, Gauff parted ways with renowned coach Brad Gilbert, bringing on Matt Daly to work alongside Jean-Christophe Faurel. This move underscored her commitment to continuous improvement and willingness to make tough decisions for the sake of her long-term development.
During a press conference at the WTA Finals, Gauff expressed satisfaction with how Daly and Faurel have complemented each other. “I knew I wanted someone to help me with what I wanted to see progress in, especially on the serve,” she explained. The serve, often seen as a critical component of her game, has been an area of focus. Gauff praised Daly’s contributions and highlighted Faurel’s insight into her all-court game, stating, “I think the two blend together well.”
This coaching dynamic appears to be paying off, as evidenced by her recent performances. The blend of Daly’s fresh perspective and Faurel’s familiarity with her game has provided a balanced approach to her development. Gauff emphasized the importance of long-term growth, indicating that her coaching changes were not just about immediate results but about building a foundation for sustained success.
### Recognition and Future Prospects
Gauff’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been nominated for the prestigious WTA Player of the Year award, alongside other top players such as Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Jasmine Paolini, and Zheng Qinwen. This nomination is a testament to her impact on the tour and her consistent performances throughout the season. Winning the award would be a fitting recognition of her hard work and the strides she has made in her career.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, expectations are high for Gauff. Her recent successes and off-season preparations indicate that she is not resting on her laurels. Instead, she is focused on refining her game, addressing weaknesses, and building on the momentum she has generated. The combination of her physical prowess, mental resilience, and strategic coaching adjustments makes her a formidable contender for future titles.
### Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
Coco Gauff’s journey is a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and authenticity. Her comical moment with Faurel during training offers a glimpse into the lighter side of an athlete’s life, while her rigorous preparation and strategic decisions reflect the seriousness with which she approaches her career. As she gears up for the 2025 season, Gauff remains a symbol of promise and potential—a young star whose best is yet to come. Whether lifting weights in the gym or lifting trophies on the court, Gauff continues to inspire and captivate, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting future in tennis.