In a heartfelt moment that’s lighting up the tennis world, Coco Gauff paid an emotional tribute to her idol, Serena Williams, during a post-match press conference at the French Open.
When asked which player inspired her most throughout her journey, the 20-year-old didn’t hesitate.
“Serena is the reason I picked up a racket,” Gauff said, her voice catching slightly. “She didn’t just change tennis—she changed the way girls like me saw ourselves. If Serena could do it, I believed I could too.”
The room fell silent as Gauff continued, reflecting on how watching Serena dominate the sport as a Black woman gave her hope and confidence as a young girl growing up in Florida.
“I remember being five years old and watching her win Grand Slams like it was normal. To me, she wasn’t just the GOAT—she was proof that greatness can look like me.”
Social media quickly exploded with love for Gauff’s remarks, with fans and athletes alike applauding her sincerity and maturity. Even Serena Williams herself responded on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “So proud of you, Coco. Keep blazing your own trail.”
Moments like these remind the world that tennis isn’t just about wins and titles—it’s about legacy, inspiration, and passing the torch to a new generation.
