Coco Gauff, the 19-year-old tennis sensation from Florida, secured her first Grand Slam title with a hard-fought victory over Aryna Sabalenka at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Gauff, who had once watched the Williams sisters dominate on the same court, acknowledged their influence on her journey to success.

In an emotional tribute, Gauff said, “It’s crazy. I mean, they’re the reason why I have this trophy today, to be honest. They have allowed me to believe in this dream growing up. You know, there wasn’t too many just Black tennis players dominating the sport. It was literally just them that I can remember when I was younger.”

She also referenced the Williams sisters’ historic moments, including Serena’s 14-year boycott of Indian Wells and Venus’s fight for equal pay in tennis. Gauff expressed her hope that her victory would inspire other young girls to pursue their dreams.

The triumph drew the attention of Hollywood celebrities and sports stars like NBA greats Kevin Durant and Jimmy Butler. Gauff received congratulatory messages from former President Barack Obama and current President Joe Biden.

Reflecting on her journey, Gauff shared, “I would tell her don’t lose that dream,” referring to her younger self. She admitted to moments of self-doubt over the years but credited her recent resurgence to bringing coach Brad Gilbert into her team.

Gauff’s rise in the tennis world serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, and she hopes her victory will encourage others to chase their dreams relentlessly.

Credit: AFP