NEW YORK — In a candid interview ahead of the US Open, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff opened up about the players who inspired her journey to the top of the sport and outlined her most ambitious career goal. The 20-year-old, who captured her first Grand Slam title on these very courts last year, named the three tennis icons she loved watching most, offering a glimpse into the influences that shaped her explosive game and champion's mindset.
Gauff, currently ranked World No. 2, has long been celebrated not just for her powerful baseline game and athleticism, but for her maturity and perspective beyond her years. As she prepares to defend her US Open crown, the pressure and expectations are higher than ever. Yet, in conversation, she remains grounded, often crediting the legends of the game for providing a blueprint for success, both on and off the court.
Gauff's "Big Three" Inspirations
When asked which players she most enjoyed watching growing up, Gauff did not hesitate, naming a trio of all-time greats whose careers spanned different eras and styles. "The three players I loved watching were Serena [Williams], Roger [Federer], and Novak [Djokovic]," Gauff revealed. This selection underscores a well-rounded appreciation for greatness, drawing inspiration from the relentless power of Williams, the graceful artistry of Federer, and the indomitable resilience of Djokovic.
Elaborating on her choice of Serena Williams, Gauff's admiration is deeply personal. "Serena is the reason why I play tennis. Seeing someone who looked like me dominating the game, it made me believe I could do it too," she said. Gauff has often spoken about the profound impact of seeing Williams' success, which provided tangible representation and a path to follow in a sport with a historically limited diversity at its pinnacle.
Her appreciation for Roger Federer stems from the aesthetic and strategic elements of his play. "With Roger, it was just the beauty of his game. Everything looked so effortless. He made you fall in love with the sport itself," Gauff explained. She noted that while her own game is built more on physical power and defense, she studies Federer's footwork, net play, and ability to shorten points as aspects to incorporate into her own evolving style.
Finally, her respect for Novak Djokovic centers on mental fortitude. "Novak's mentality is just different. His ability to problem-solve, to stay calm in the biggest moments, and his physical longevity are what I try to learn from," Gauff stated. This focus on the psychological dimension of tennis has become a hallmark of Gauff's recent success, particularly since teaming up with coach Brad Gilbert, who emphasizes tactical adaptability and mental toughness.
The Biggest Goal: Longevity and Legacy
Beyond naming her idols, Gauff articulated her paramount career objective, which transcends winning any single tournament. "My biggest goal isn't a specific number of Slams, though of course I want to win more. My biggest goal is longevity and to still be playing at the highest level when I'm in my 30s, like the players I looked up to," she said. This goal reflects a significant shift in perspective from a teenage phenom to a seasoned professional thinking about a sustained career.
Gauff pointed to the careers of her three favorites—Williams, Federer, and Djokovic—as the ultimate blueprint. Each maintained a dominant presence on tour for well over a decade, adapting their games and managing their bodies to withstand the sport's increasing physical demands. "I want to have a career that lasts. I don't want to be a flash in the pan. I want to be someone who is consistent, who is in the second week of majors for years and years," she emphasized.
To achieve this, Gauff is already implementing a meticulous approach to her schedule, training, and recovery. She has spoken about the importance of:
- Strategic Scheduling: Being selective about tournaments to avoid burnout and peak for Grand Slams.
- Physical Maintenance: A dedicated focus on fitness, nutrition, and preventative physiotherapy.
- Continuous Evolution: Constantly adding new dimensions to her game, such as an improved forehand and more aggressive net play.
This mature outlook is a direct lesson taken from her idols. "You see how Novak and Roger managed their calendars, and especially Serena, how she came back and won after having a baby. That's the level of dedication and smart planning I'm talking about," Gauff noted.
Carrying the Torch with Perspective
As one of the new faces of tennis, Gauff is acutely aware of her platform and the expectations that come with it. Winning the US Open transformed her from a promising contender into a proven champion, a shift she is still navigating. "Winning a Slam changes everything and nothing at the same time. You're the same person, but now you have a target on your back every single match," she admitted.
However, the perspective gained from watching her heroes' journeys helps her manage this pressure. She recalls watching their losses as well as their victories, understanding that resilience is forged in defeat. "I saw Serena lose, I saw Roger and Novak lose tough matches. What defined them was how they came back. That's what I hold onto when I have a bad day," Gauff shared. This mindset was evident in her 2023 US Open run, where she bounced back from a first-set deficit multiple times, displaying a Djokovic-like calm under pressure.
Looking ahead, Coco Gauff stands at a fascinating crossroads, blending the fearless power of a next-generation star with the wisdom of the past. By channeling the inspiration of Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic, she is crafting a unique path aimed not at a fleeting moment of glory, but at a lasting legacy. Her biggest goal—a long, prosperous career at the summit of tennis—suggests that the champion we saw crowned in Flushing Meadows last year is just the first chapter in a story inspired by the very greatest to ever play the game.