Coco Gauff’s ascent to the top of the tennis world has been nothing short of meteoric. At just 19 years old, she has not only captivated fans with her remarkable talent and tenacity on the court, but she has also achieved financial success that is rare for someone so young. Her victory at the 2023 US Open was a crowning achievement, marking her first Grand Slam title and earning her a substantial $3 million in prize money. But beyond the monetary gain, this victory solidified Gauff’s status as one of the brightest stars in tennis today.
The US Open triumph was a monumental moment in Gauff’s career, not just for its symbolic significance as her first Grand Slam, but also because it served as a validation of the hard work she’s put into her game since bursting onto the scene in 2019. At that time, a 15-year-old Gauff stunned the tennis world by defeating her idol, Venus Williams, at Wimbledon. From that moment, expectations skyrocketed, and the pressure to live up to the hype was intense. Yet, Gauff has steadily progressed, improving her game, dealing with setbacks, and ultimately seizing her moment in New York in 2023.
After winning the US Open, Gauff admitted that despite the significant financial reward, she didn’t splurge on extravagant purchases or material luxuries. In a recent interview with the US Open, she shared that, instead of buying luxury goods, she indulged in one of her favorite pastimes: attending live music concerts. Known for her love of music, Gauff took the opportunity to see several of her favorite artists, including SZA, Doja Cat, Tyler the Creator, and Ice Spice.
“I haven’t really bought anything after the US Open to treat myself,” Gauff revealed. “I mean, I’ve been to a couple of concerts, so I guess that’s a good splurge. I got tickets to see SZA, Tyler the Creator, Doja Cat, and Ice Spice. I had a whole concert binge after the US Open, so I would say concerts.”
While her concert spree may have been a way to unwind and celebrate, it is clear that Gauff remains focused on her tennis career. In the same interview, she mentioned that she doesn’t even have her US Open trophy prominently displayed at home. This choice reflects her mindset of focusing on the future and the challenges ahead rather than resting on her laurels. For Gauff, the hunger for more titles and continued success drives her forward, and she doesn’t want to get caught up in what she has already achieved.
In terms of managing her newfound wealth, Gauff has also shown a maturity beyond her years. Before turning 18, her financial affairs were handled by her parents. Now, as she gains more autonomy over her finances, Gauff is taking steps to ensure her future financial security. She has hinted at plans to invest her earnings in ways that will benefit her long-term, a prudent approach that underscores her awareness of the fleeting nature of professional sports careers.
“I’m just starting to take more responsibility over my own finances,” Gauff mentioned. “It’s something I take seriously because I know that while tennis has brought me success now, it won’t last forever. I want to make smart decisions that will set me up for the future.”
Her measured approach to finances is just one aspect of her growing responsibility both on and off the court. Gauff’s commitment to improving as a player remains at the forefront of her priorities. Despite her young age, she has already developed into a formidable competitor on the WTA tour, consistently pushing herself to refine her game. Her work ethic and determination to get better with each match are traits that have endeared her to fans and have set her on a path toward becoming one of the greats in the sport.
With her first Grand Slam title now in the books, the expectations for what comes next are sky-high. Gauff has already proven that she can handle the pressure of the big stage, and as she continues to develop her game, there is no doubt that more major titles are within reach. Her all-around game—built on a solid foundation of athleticism, quickness, and a fierce backhand—positions her well to contend for the sport’s biggest prizes in the years to come.
Off the court, Gauff’s success has also made her a role model for young athletes around the world. She has spoken openly about using her platform to advocate for social justice and has become a powerful voice on issues like racial inequality and climate change. In doing so, she has shown that her influence extends far beyond tennis. As she continues to navigate her career and personal growth, Gauff is setting an example for how athletes can leverage their success to make a positive impact on the world.
In conclusion, Coco Gauff’s journey from a teenage sensation to a Grand Slam champion is a testament to her hard work, focus, and maturity. Her US Open victory in 2023 was not only a career-defining moment but also a springboard for even greater accomplishments to come. As she continues to develop both as a player and as a person, Gauff’s thoughtful approach to finances, her dedication to her sport, and her passion for social issues position her as a leader on and off the court. With each new achievement, Gauff is cementing her legacy as one of the most exciting and inspirational figures in the world of tennis.