NEW YORK — Rising tennis star Coco Gauff has revealed the affectionate nickname her boyfriend gives her, just hours before her highly anticipated match against Emma Raducanu at the 2024 US Open. The 20-year-old American, who has been competing under her full name Cori "Coco" Gauff, shared the personal detail in a lighthearted pre-match interview.
Gauff, currently ranked No. 3 in the world, will face former US Open champion Raducanu in a marquee third-round clash at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The match marks their first meeting since Raducanu’s historic 2021 title run, adding extra intrigue to the showdown. But off the court, Gauff offered fans a glimpse into her personal life, disclosing that her longtime boyfriend, fellow tennis player Tomas Machac, has a special name for her.
The Nickname That Stuck
"He calls me 'Cocolicious'," Gauff revealed with a laugh. "It started as a joke, but now it’s just stuck. I don’t even respond to 'Coco' as much anymore when he says it." The nickname, a playful twist on her childhood moniker, has become a private inside joke between the couple, who have been dating since 2023.
Gauff, known for her maturity and poise on the court, admitted that the nickname helps her stay grounded amid the pressures of professional tennis. "It’s nice to have someone who sees you beyond just tennis," she said. "When I’m off the court, I’m just Cocolicious to him, and that’s a fun escape."
A Name With History
Gauff’s journey with her name has been a topic of interest since she burst onto the scene as a 15-year-old prodigy. Born Cori Gauff, she adopted "Coco" as a toddler after her parents noticed her love for the character Coco from the Disney movie Coco. The name became synonymous with her fearless playing style and infectious energy.
However, in recent years, Gauff has embraced her full name in professional settings. "I’ve always been Cori to my family, but Coco is who I am on the court," she explained. "Now, with Tomas, I’ve got a whole new version—Cocolicious."
Focus on the Match Ahead
Despite the personal revelations, Gauff remains laser-focused on her upcoming battle with Raducanu. The British star, who stunned the tennis world with her 2021 US Open victory as a qualifier, has been working her way back from injuries and is eager to prove herself against one of the sport’s brightest young talents.
Gauff acknowledged the challenge, saying, "Emma’s a fighter, and she’s proven she can handle the big stage. I know I have to bring my best game." The match is expected to draw a packed crowd, with fans eager to see how the two phenoms match up.
Key Factors in the Matchup
Tennis analysts have highlighted several key aspects to watch:
- Gauff’s Speed & Defense: Her ability to retrieve balls and extend rallies could frustrate Raducanu.
- Raducanu’s Precision: If she finds her rhythm, her clean ball-striking could dictate play.
- Mental Toughness: Both players have shown resilience in high-pressure moments.
A Glimpse Into Gauff’s Personal Growth
Beyond the nickname, Gauff’s openness about her relationship reflects her growing confidence off the court. "I used to keep everything private, but I’ve realized it’s okay to share parts of my life," she said. "Fans have supported me since I was a kid, so why not let them in a little more?"
Her boyfriend, Czech player Tomas Machac, has been a steady presence in her career. The two often train together during off-seasons, and Gauff credits him with helping her maintain balance. "He understands the grind, so when I need to vent, he gets it," she shared.
What’s Next for Gauff?
Win or lose against Raducanu, Gauff’s future remains bright. She’s already a Grand Slam champion (2023 US Open) and an Olympic gold medalist (2024 Paris). With her game evolving and her personal life flourishing, she’s poised to remain a dominant force in tennis for years to come.
As for the nickname? "I don’t think ‘Cocolicious’ will make it onto the scoreboard anytime soon," Gauff joked. "But who knows? Maybe if I win enough, it’ll catch on."
Fans can catch the high-stakes showdown tonight at 7:30 PM ET, where Gauff will look to add another memorable chapter to her already storied career—whether as Coco, Cori, or Cocolicious.