As the holiday season kicked off, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff took a well-deserved break from the court, sharing an intimate and heartwarming moment with her grandfather, Eddie ‘Red’ Odom, during Thanksgiving. Known for her powerful performances and inspiring journey, Gauff offered fans a rare glimpse into her personal life, celebrating the holiday with her beloved family after concluding a stellar 2024 season. Her recent successes on the court, including an impressive victory at the WTA Finals, made this season particularly memorable, and Thanksgiving provided the perfect occasion to reflect on her achievements and cherish family ties.
A Spectacular Finish to 2024: Gauff’s WTA Finals Victory
Coco Gauff’s season wrapped up in spectacular fashion with her triumph at the prestigious WTA Finals on November 3. Facing formidable opponents throughout the tournament, Gauff displayed incredible resilience and skill. In the final, she overcame China’s rising star Qinwen Zheng in a thrilling three-set match, eventually securing the title with a 3-6, 6-4, 7-6(2) victory. The match showcased Gauff’s tenacity, especially in the decisive tiebreak, where her composure and tactical brilliance shone through.
Throughout the tournament, Gauff demonstrated why she’s considered one of the brightest talents in women’s tennis. Her journey to the title saw her defeat top-ranked players, including compatriot Jessica Pegula, Poland’s Iga Świątek, and Belarusian powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka. Each match highlighted different aspects of Gauff’s evolving game, from her powerful baseline play to her strategic net approaches, earning her praise from analysts and fans alike.
Off-Season Bliss: A Family-Centered Thanksgiving
With the season now behind her, Gauff is savoring the off-season, enjoying precious moments with her family. Known for her focus and dedication to tennis, the 20-year-old rarely shares glimpses of her personal life on social media. However, this Thanksgiving, she delighted fans by posting a touching selfie with her grandfather, Eddie ‘Red’ Odom. Accompanying the photo was a simple yet heartfelt caption: “Granddad.”
The photo resonated deeply with Gauff’s followers, offering a glimpse into the close-knit family bonds that have supported her journey. Alongside the image of her grandfather, Gauff also shared several other pictures showcasing her preparations for Thanksgiving, reflecting her excitement for the holiday and her appreciation for time spent at home.
Eddie ‘Red’ Odom: A Legacy of Inspiration
Gauff’s grandfather, Eddie Odom, is more than just a beloved family figure; he is a community hero with a remarkable legacy. A passionate baseball fan, Odom co-founded the Delray Beach American Little League with his wife, Yvonne, aiming to promote baseball among Black youth in their Florida community. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to providing opportunities for young athletes have left an enduring impact, inspiring generations of young players—including his granddaughter, who carries forward the family’s athletic tradition on the global tennis stage.
A Special Birthday Tribute
Gauff’s love and admiration for her grandfather are evident not just during holidays but throughout the year. On October 11, 2024, she shared a heartfelt birthday message for Odom on social media. In the photo, her grandfather is seen wearing a baseball cap and a blue jacket, posing affectionately with Gauff. “Happy birthday grandad,” she wrote. “Lol he doesn’t have Instagram but any reason to share this picture imma do it.”
The post was filled with warmth and humor, reflecting the close bond they share. Gauff’s mother, Candi, also paid tribute to Odom on his birthday, posting a picture of him in a red cap and matching shirt with the caption, “Happy birthday dad!! I love you!” These public tributes highlight the central role family plays in Gauff’s life, grounding her amidst the pressures of professional tennis.
A Season of Triumphs
While Gauff’s Thanksgiving posts captured a tender family moment, they also served as a reminder of her incredible achievements this year. In addition to winning the WTA Finals, she captured the China Open title, defeating a series of strong competitors. Her path to victory included wins over Clara Burel, Katie Boulter, Naomi Osaka, Yuliia Starodubtseva, and Paula Badosa. In the final, she delivered a dominant performance against Karolina Muchova, winning 6-1, 6-3 to claim the championship.
Gauff’s success wasn’t limited to singles play. In a memorable highlight of the 2024 season, she partnered with Katerina Siniakova to win the women’s doubles title at the French Open. The duo triumphed over Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini in a hard-fought final, winning 7-6(5), 6-3. This victory marked Gauff’s first Grand Slam doubles title, adding to her growing list of accolades.
Looking Ahead: Rest, Reflection, and Renewal
As Gauff enjoys her time off, she remains focused on the future. The off-season is a crucial period for rest and recovery, but it also offers an opportunity for reflection and growth. For Gauff, moments like Thanksgiving—spent surrounded by loved ones—provide the emotional fuel needed to face the challenges ahead.
Her grandfather’s influence continues to shape her journey, reminding her of the values of perseverance, dedication, and community. As she looks ahead to the 2025 season, Gauff carries with her not only the lessons learned on the court but also the love and support of her family—a powerful foundation for continued success.
This expanded piece captures Gauff’s season achievements, her close family ties, and the touching Thanksgiving moment, offering a richer narrative beyond the initial story.