Coco Gauff has long inspired millions with her athletic talents and outspoken activism, and her recent comments about Vice President Kamala Harris have only underscored her sense of purpose beyond the tennis court. Gauff, who made headlines as a teenage champion and rising star, has openly admired Harris and the powerful example she sets. Reflecting on Harris’ journey from a first-generation American to becoming the Vice President of the United States—and now the Democratic nominee for the presidency—Gauff expressed how seeing someone who looks like her rise to such high office is not only historic but personally meaningful.
As the defending champion of the US Open, Gauff entered the 2024 tournament amid a unique backdrop: a high-stakes presidential race set for November 5, with Kamala Harris vying for the nation’s highest office against former President Donald Trump. Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, Gauff shared her admiration for Harris and how the vice president’s candidacy symbolizes tremendous progress in the fight for racial and gender equality. “It’s inspiring to see how far this country has come,” Gauff noted. “Especially with a Black woman on the presidential ballot. It just makes you think about all the history and hard work that’s gotten us to this point.”
Gauff, only 20, knows that her own success is part of a larger legacy of breaking down barriers. However, she finds Harris’ journey particularly captivating because of the personal hurdles the vice president has faced and the unique challenges she has overcome. Gauff, who briefly spoke with Harris after her triumphant US Open win in 2023, expressed her desire for a more in-depth conversation with the vice president, especially about her life experiences. “I would ask her about her story—how she grew up, what were the moments that shaped her,” Gauff said, noting that she’s familiar with Harris’ background as the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants. “But I’d like to hear about it in her own words, not just from news reports or speeches. It’s kind of crazy to see how someone can come from a background so different from past leaders and now be in a position to potentially become the president.”
This perspective underscores Gauff’s appreciation of Harris’ story not just as a political figure, but as someone who embodies the American ideal of possibility and transformation. Gauff explained that her curiosity is partly due to the fact that, like many children, she too once dreamed of becoming the president. She laughed as she recounted how, as a young girl, she aspired to hold the highest office, something she now sees reflected in Harris’ journey. “I think everyone at some point said they wanted to be president,” Gauff reflected. “So it’d be amazing to hear about the stepping stones she took to get there, especially from someone who’s gone through it all firsthand.”
Vice President Harris, who congratulated Gauff after her 2023 US Open victory, has herself publicly praised the tennis star for her inspiring drive and determination. In a message shared on X, Harris wrote, “Congratulations, @CocoGauff! Your drive and determination are an inspiration to the millions of little girls watching. I feel confident that while this is your first Major title, it won’t be your last.” Harris’ supportive message emphasized the connection between the two women as role models for the next generation, showing young girls that they too can achieve greatness—whether on the tennis court or in positions of political leadership.
Gauff’s admiration for Harris extends to her political engagement, as the young star has recently taken a stand in the 2024 presidential election. Gauff made it clear she supports Harris over her opponent, Donald Trump, and has echoed concerns voiced by Michelle Obama regarding the potential impact of a Trump presidency on women’s health and rights. Specifically, Gauff endorsed Obama’s remarks on the “chilling effect” Trump’s policies could have on access to abortion care and broader health rights for women. While she hasn’t shied away from speaking on these issues in the past, her statements in this election cycle underscore how closely she aligns with Harris’ positions, particularly on issues of gender equality and reproductive rights.
For Gauff, Harris represents more than just a political figure; she’s a symbol of progress and resilience. Harris’ journey, as a first-generation American and a Black woman in leadership, strikes a chord with Gauff, who has frequently used her platform to advocate for racial and gender equality. During the social justice protests of recent years, Gauff was an active voice in supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, participating in marches and speaking out on the responsibility of public figures to champion justice and equity. Her continued admiration for Harris is, in part, due to the values she sees the vice president embodying in her policies and public service.
As Gauff looks ahead to her campaign to defend her US Open title, her reflections on Harris serve as a reminder that the young star’s impact reaches beyond tennis. Much like Harris, who has often discussed the responsibility of being a “first” in her role, Gauff too recognizes the significance of representation and role models. The connection between the two figures—both trailblazers in their own fields—represents a shared journey of breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.
If Harris were to win the presidency, she would become the first woman, and the first Black and Asian American, to hold the office. For Gauff, this milestone would be a continuation of the trailblazing path set by figures like Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, both of whom have previously recognized Gauff’s achievements. Obama himself congratulated Gauff after her 2023 US Open win, with his words and encouragement resonating deeply with her.
Gauff’s admiration for Harris is rooted in her respect for those who embody perseverance, purpose, and progress. Her hope for a deeper conversation with Harris reflects not only her curiosity but also her commitment to learning from leaders who have overcome significant odds to make history. As she continues her career in tennis and her advocacy off the court, Coco Gauff’s story mirrors the very values she admires in Harris—dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the potential for change. As both women continue to break boundaries in their respective arenas, they set a powerful example for future generations, proving that no dream is too big if approached with conviction and purpose.