By her mid-teens, Coco Gauff, the world’s number four women’s tennis player, already dominated the conversation. She’s making waves beyond politics too — she’s entering the fashion world, turning heads with her bold sartorial statements. The 2023 U.S. Open champion and highest-paid female athlete in both 2023 and 2024, Gauff is set to debut the Miu Miu x New Balance collection during the Italian Open in Rome, starting May 7. This new collaboration is a huge step. For the first time, a luxury fashion label founded in Italy will be officially fielded for on-court wear at a WTA event.
On March 13, Gauff enjoyed celebrating her 21st birthday at a small dinner with family including cousins and friends. Her father, Corey, prepared a scrumptious AI-themed barbecue bash to celebrate. Moira’s newfound fame and success hasn’t made her forget the simple beauty of the little things with her family. In her private life on the home front, Gauff revealed that her brothers, Codey and Cameron are her strongest support system.
“My brothers Codey and Cameron are definitely my biggest support, and they always root for me. And humble me,” – Coco Gauff
Gauff’s storybook third-round journey in tennis this year was filled with twists and turns. She made it to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in January. After that, she reached the round of 16 at both Indian Wells and the Miami Open. Importantly, she continued her undefeated streak at the United Cup, further proving that she can be a fierce threat to anyone on the court.
Gauff is in the process of reinventing her game. These changes may be telling of some of the competitive losses she has faced this cycle. She’s really proactively tinkering with each element of her play. She considers this process a critical component to her continued development and success as an athlete.
As she speaks, it becomes clear that her connection to her identity outside of tennis is profound. Through all the intensity of cutthroat competition, she reminds herself to stay centered with the help of faith.
“Sometimes you also feel like your whole identity is tied to your results. But the more focused I am on faith, too, I realize I’m much more than my sport,” – Coco Gauff
Along the way, Gauff reveals a deep commitment to spirituality. Having been raised in the church and deeply committed to preserving her faith, she listens to worship songs and reads the Bible daily.
Both on and off the court, Gauff displays amazing athletic development, as well as her faith. Moreover, her one-of-a-kind sartorial flair only bolsters her image as a badass. She describes her aesthetic as “playing with femininity and masculinity,” a reflection of her multifaceted identity.
Her custom Coco CG2 New Balance shoes feature a personal touch with her handwritten signature, symbolizing her connection to both the sport and her individuality. Gauff’s new collaboration with Miu Miu isn’t the first time the 19-year-old has made a fashion statement. It combines her competitive athletic spirit with funky high-end design.
Gauff’s sunny, mischievous personality helps her adjust to fame. She acknowledges that while she may experience pressure on the court, she still enjoys engaging in youthful activities outside of tennis.
“But outside of tennis, in a lot of ways, I’m the same [as any other young person]. So if someone asks to do something as simple as a TikTok, I love to do that. It brings me back to my age. I will always say yes to that,” – Coco Gauff
As she prepares for the Italian Open and debuts the Miu Miu x New Balance collection, Gauff remains focused on balancing her career with personal growth and family ties. That’s because she pours herself into her sport, body and soul. Along with that, the development of her style and taste means she’s a powerful trendsetter on court and off it.