In the fast-paced world of professional tennis, where every swing and serve demands precision, Coco Gauff remains a beacon of authenticity and relatability. On the eve of her campaign at the 2025 National Bank Open in Montreal, the 21-year-old tennis sensation paused to share a heartfelt moment with her fans. Taking to social media, Gauff expressed her gratitude and excitement for those who show up to her matches wearing her signature New Balance shoes, a gesture that underscores her deep connection with her supporters and her hometown roots. “Shoutout to all the homies pulling up to my matches in CG1s, CG2s, and The Delrays,” she wrote. “Not that I have favorites amongst y’all butttt if you pull up in those i’m signing, or taking a pic, basically whatever you want me to do, it’s always crazy for me to see ppl wearing my shoes fr❤️.” This message, brimming with warmth and sincerity, highlights Gauff’s appreciation for her fans’ loyalty and her joy in seeing her personal journey reflected in their choice of footwear.
Gauff’s partnership with New Balance, which began when she was just 14 years old in 2018, has evolved into one of the most dynamic athlete-brand collaborations in sports. The journey started with the launch of her first signature shoe, the Coco CG1, in 2022, unveiled during an exhibition match in Atlanta. Designed with a bold ’90s aesthetic and a mid-top silhouette, the CG1 was a trailblazer, incorporating a carbon fiber plate for enhanced performance and personal touches like Gauff’s signature on the tongue and the coordinates of Pompey Park, the public courts in Delray Beach, Florida, where she honed her skills. The shoe wasn’t just about performance; it was a statement of Gauff’s identity, blending her love for tennis with her desire to inspire the next generation. “It’s an absolute dream come true to be able to put my stamp on this sport with New Balance and hopefully inspire generations to come,” Gauff said at the time, emphasizing her goal to make an impact both on and off the court.
In August 2024, Gauff and New Balance took their collaboration to new heights with the Coco CG2, a refined evolution of her debut shoe. Drawing inspiration from her favorite off-court New Balance 550 model, the CG2 features a tennis ball on the woven tongue label, a diamond knit mesh for stability, and a nod to her beloved city of Paris through its geometric design. Priced at $159.99, the CG2’s “Power and Grace” colorway reflects Gauff’s dynamic playing style, with “power” and “grace” woven into the labels of the left and right shoes, respectively. The shoe’s Energy Arc technology and FuelCell midsole cater to elite athletes, offering comfort and explosive responsiveness. Gauff’s enthusiasm for the project was palpable: “I had as much fun designing and collaborating on the Coco CG2 as I did with the Coco CG1. My relationship with the New Balance team is incredible, and I’m excited to see what people think of the evolution of this shoe!”
The latest addition to Gauff’s signature line, the Coco Delray, launched in March 2025 on her 21st birthday, carries a deeply personal significance. Unlike the high-performance CG1 and CG2, the Delray, priced at $110, is designed for everyday players, emphasizing accessibility and community. Named after her hometown, the shoe pays homage to the public courts of Pompey Park and the support of her family, particularly her grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom, who narrated the launch campaign video. “I’m incredibly proud to launch the new Coco Delray because it’s more than just a tennis shoe,” Gauff shared. “It represents an opportunity to broaden access to those interested in playing the game and will have a positive cultural impact for generations to come.” Available in vibrant blue and yellow colorways, the Delray blends style and functionality, making it a favorite for both casual and competitive players.
As Gauff prepares for the National Bank Open, where she enters as the No. 1 seed following Aryna Sabalenka’s withdrawal, her recent form has raised concerns after straight-set losses on grass. Yet, her focus remains unshaken, buoyed by the support of fans who proudly wear her signature shoes. Her promise to sign autographs or take photos with those sporting CG1s, CG2s, or Delrays is more than a gesture—it’s a testament to her commitment to her community. “I am very happy to be back here in Montreal, hoping to have a good start on hard courts,” Gauff said, signaling her determination to kick off the North American hardcourt swing with a strong performance.
Gauff’s journey with New Balance transcends traditional endorsements, weaving her personal story into every design. From the CG1’s family-inspired inscriptions to the Delray’s nod to her roots, her shoes are a love letter to her supporters and her heritage. As she continues to rise in the tennis world, currently ranked WTA No. 2, Gauff’s ability to connect with fans through moments like these ensures her legacy extends far beyond the court.
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