Coco Gauff, one of tennis’ brightest young stars, has stunned the sports world with a surprise career move that’s left fans and experts completely divided.
The 2023 US Open champion announced today that she will be taking an indefinite break from singles competition to focus solely on doubles play and off-court projects, including philanthropy, activism, and a possible foray into media and fashion.
In a statement posted to her official accounts, Gauff said: “Tennis is my passion, but right now I feel called to explore other parts of who I am. I’m not quitting—I’m expanding.”
The announcement has lit up social media, with fans split right down the middle:
“She’s young, rich, and already a Grand Slam champ—let her live and grow.”
“She’s turning her back on the sport just as she was hitting her prime.”
Tennis commentators are equally unsure of what to make of the move. One analyst called it “bold, but risky,” while another compared it to when Ash Barty temporarily walked away from tennis—only to return and win Wimbledon and the Australian Open.
Gauff’s team insists this is not a retirement, but rather a “strategic pause” aimed at long-term sustainability in her career. However, critics argue that walking away from singles—where she’s proven herself a major contender—could derail her momentum and shake her confidence.
Whether this is a brilliant reset or a misstep, one thing is certain: Coco Gauff is playing by her own rules—and the tennis world will be watching closely to see what comes next.
