In the high-pressure world of professional tennis, Coco Gauff has long been celebrated not only for her explosive athleticism but also for her remarkable poise and maturity. At just 21, the 2023 US Open champion and world No. 2 seed has navigated the global stage with a composure that belies her age, earning her the nickname “Mrs. Mature” among peers. Yet, following her commanding 6-0, 7-5 victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova in the fourth round of the 2025 French Open, Gauff opened up about a moment from her childhood that she considers “the worst day of my life,” offering a glimpse into the experiences that shaped her grounded perspective and unwavering drive.
During a candid post-match press conference on June 2, 2025, Gauff reflected on her school days, revealing how her commitment to being a role model began early. “I definitely feel like I’m, sometimes, when I was a junior, especially, more mature than some of my peers. I don’t know why,” she said, her tone blending introspection with a touch of humor. She recalled always being the first to class, a habit rooted in her desire to set a positive example, particularly for her younger brothers, Codey and Cameron. But one incident stood out as a defining moment: “I remember getting on the yellow for the behavior chart once, and that was the worst day of my life. I’m definitely someone that prides myself in being a good example. I think it’s because I have two younger brothers, and I feel like I have to be that example.”
For Gauff, that yellow mark on the behavior chart—a minor infraction in the grand scheme—was a crushing blow to her sense of responsibility. The memory, though seemingly trivial, underscores the high standards she has always set for herself, a trait that has propelled her to the top echelons of tennis. Her parents, Corey and Candi Gauff, have been instrumental in nurturing this mindset, balancing their roles as coaches and supporters while encouraging her to remain authentic. “They’re just really my support system,” Gauff told reporters last year, emphasizing how her parents help with everything from scouting reports to simply being there as mom and dad. This family dynamic has been a cornerstone of her success, especially during long, isolating stretches on the WTA tour.
Gauff’s journey to the 2025 French Open quarterfinals, her fifth consecutive appearance at this stage, has not been without its lighter moments. Earlier in the tournament, she forgot her rackets for her first-round match on Court Philippe-Chatrier, a blunder that drew playful teasing from fellow American Frances Tiafoe. “She was full out shaking her whole bag like it was an empty cookie jar on Chatrier. I was like, ‘What are you doing?’” Tiafoe quipped, seizing the chance to poke fun at Gauff’s “Mrs. Mature” persona. Gauff took it in stride, retorting, “I feel like maybe just playing tennis, it forces you to grow up faster for some people. Maybe not him.” The exchange, filled with laughter, highlighted her ability to embrace her humanity, even as she carries the weight of expectations as a former Grand Slam champion.
Her maturity extends beyond the court. Gauff has used her platform to advocate for social justice, notably delivering a powerful speech at a 2020 Black Lives Matter rally in her hometown of Delray Beach, Florida, at age 16. “I demand change now,” she declared, calling for action against racial injustice. Her willingness to speak out, coupled with her on-court achievements, has drawn praise from tennis legends like Billie Jean King and Chris Evert, who see her as a future leader in the sport. “When people see an athlete with her level of fame and fortune having humility and empathy for people around her and awareness of world events, it sends a clear message,” Evert noted.
As Gauff prepares for a blockbuster quarterfinal clash against compatriot Madison Keys on June 4, 2025, she faces a formidable challenge. Keys, the reigning Australian Open champion, holds a 3-2 edge in their head-to-head, with their most recent encounter—a grueling 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-4 battle at the 2024 Madrid Open—going Keys’ way. Yet Gauff’s recent form, including back-to-back WTA 1000 finals in Madrid and Rome, signals a return to the dominance that saw her win the 2023 US Open. “Honestly, before every Grand Slam I have the belief I can win,” she said earlier this year, a mindset that has carried her through a season of highs and lows.
Gauff’s ability to reflect on moments like her “worst day” with humor and perspective highlights why she resonates with fans worldwide. Whether she’s dancing in the stands as an eight-year-old spectator, as seen in a viral 2012 US Open video, or commanding the court as a Grand Slam champion, Gauff’s authenticity shines through. As she continues her Roland Garros campaign, the tennis world watches not just a prodigy, but a young woman whose maturity and heart are as inspiring as her forehand.
Leave a Reply