On a crisp spring day in 2025, Coco Gauff, the rising tennis superstar, took a moment to reflect on the guiding hands that have shaped her journey both on and off the court. In a heartfelt revelation, the young athlete credited her parents, Candi and Corey Gauff, for keeping her grounded and steering her away from a potentially treacherous path in the high-stakes world of professional tennis. “Let her do things naturally,” Coco recalled her parents’ philosophy, a mantra that has not only preserved her authenticity but also shielded her from the controversies that have ensnared some of her peers.
Coco’s story begins with a family deeply rooted in athletic excellence. Her father, Corey, once dazzled on the basketball courts as a Division I player at Georgia State University, bringing a competitive edge and a strategic mind to the household. Meanwhile, her mother, Candi, was no stranger to the spotlight, having excelled as a track and field athlete at Florida State University, where she specialized in hurdles and the heptathlon. This dynamic duo didn’t just pass down their athletic genes—they instilled a sense of discipline and wisdom that Coco now holds dear. Corey, who later transitioned into a healthcare executive role, brought an additional layer of expertise to the table, particularly when it came to navigating the murky waters of performance-enhancing supplements—a topic that has sparked heated debates in the tennis world.
The issue of supplements is a divisive one among athletes. Some, like Daniil Medvedev, have openly embraced them, with the Russian star once quipping, “I would die on court” without their support. Yet, even he remains cautious, acknowledging the growing risk of contamination—a fear validated by the increasing number of doping scandals that have rocked the sport. For Coco, however, the choice was clear, thanks to her parents’ guidance. “They always told me to let my talent shine through naturally,” she shared, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and conviction. “They didn’t want me relying on anything that could compromise my integrity or my health.”
This philosophy was put to the test recently during the Masters 1000 tournament, where Hard Rock Stadium transformed into a hub of medical scrutiny. Athletes underwent rigorous screenings—over 11 doctor visits, in fact—to ensure they were in peak condition. Coco, ever the eager participant, found herself marveling at the process. In a lively video shared by the WTA, she beamed with excitement: “Hey guys, it’s Coco here, and I just want to talk to you about my amazing experience here in the WTA with Hologic at our annual physicals.” The checkups, which ranged from cardiology to dermatology, underscored the sport’s commitment to player well-being, and for Coco, they reinforced the value of her natural approach.
Beyond the physical, Coco’s parents have been her moral compass in an industry where the pressure to perform can blur ethical lines. Corey’s background in healthcare gave him a keen eye for the risks associated with supplements, while Candi’s nurturing presence ensured Coco never lost sight of who she was. Together, they crafted a path that allowed their daughter to rise through the ranks—winning hearts and titles—without succumbing to shortcuts. “I could’ve gone down a different road,” Coco admitted, her tone reflective. “But they kept me focused on what really matters: hard work, trust in myself, and staying true to the game.”
As Coco continues to carve her legacy, her story serves as a testament to the power of parental influence in an era where young athletes face unprecedented scrutiny. With Candi and Corey by her side, she’s not just playing tennis—she’s redefining what it means to succeed on her own terms. And in a sport often shadowed by controversy, Coco Gauff’s natural brilliance shines brighter than ever.
Leave a Reply