Coco Gauff shares two stories behind why she doesn’t go by her real name at US Open

Coco Gauff has become a household name in the world of tennis, known for her exceptional talent, poise, and determination on the court. At just 20 years old, she has already achieved what many athletes can only dream of—defeating legends, reaching Grand Slam finals, and winning major titles. But while her accomplishments are well-documented, the story behind her name, and why she no longer goes by “Cori,” is less well-known. Recently, Gauff revealed that there are two competing stories about how she came to be known as “Coco,” adding a personal touch to her public persona as she prepared to defend her US Open title.

The Rise of Coco Gauff: From Wimbledon to Stardom

Coco Gauff burst onto the global tennis scene in 2019, when, at the tender age of 15, she stunned the world by reaching the fourth round of Wimbledon. Her journey at the All England Club was nothing short of extraordinary, as she defeated her idol, seven-time Grand Slam winner Venus Williams, in the first round. This victory catapulted Gauff to instant fame, making her a global sensation almost overnight.

However, by the time she made headlines at Wimbledon, she was already known as “Coco,” a name that had become synonymous with her growing reputation as a tennis prodigy. Few knew that her birth name was “Cori,” a name that had been left behind as her career took off. As she continued to make her mark in the tennis world, reaching her first Grand Slam quarter-final in 2021 and her first final in 2022, the name “Coco” became even more entrenched in the public consciousness.

The Origin of “Coco”: Two Competing Stories

As Gauff prepared to defend her US Open title, she took the time to explain the origins of her nickname, “Coco,” revealing that there are two competing stories behind it. The first story involves her father, Corey Gauff, who played a significant role in her tennis career and life. According to Gauff, her father mentioned that when he was younger, people used to call him “Co,” as a shortened version of his name. When his daughter was born, he decided to extend that nickname, calling her “Coco.” This story emphasizes the close bond between father and daughter, a relationship that has been pivotal in Gauff’s rise to tennis stardom.

The second story comes from Gauff’s aunt, who claims that she was the one who coined the nickname “Coco.” According to her aunt, the name was her idea, possibly as a playful or affectionate way to refer to the young Gauff. This version of the story adds another layer of family connection to the nickname, highlighting the role of Gauff’s extended family in shaping her identity.

When asked which story is true, Gauff admitted that she doesn’t know for sure. “I don’t know which story is actually true,” she said, “but they both get pretty bad if I don’t say both of them.” In typical Coco Gauff fashion, she handled the situation with grace and humor, acknowledging both stories as part of her personal narrative.

The Significance of a Name: From “Cori” to “Coco”

The transition from “Cori” to “Coco” may seem like a small change, but for Gauff, it represents a significant aspect of her identity. In many ways, “Coco” has become more than just a nickname—it is a brand, a symbol of her achievements and the promise of what she can still accomplish in the future.

Gauff’s decision to go by “Coco” also reflects a desire to distinguish herself, not just in the world of tennis, but within her own family. As she explained, part of the reason for the change was to avoid confusion at home. “My dad’s name is Corey,” she said. “And so I guess, you know, they didn’t want me to get my dad and me confused when my mom is like yelling at one of us in the house.” This practical reasoning underscores the importance of individuality, even within the close-knit environment of a family.

The name “Coco” also carries with it a sense of playfulness and youth, qualities that Gauff embodies both on and off the court. Despite the immense pressure that comes with being one of the top players in the world, Gauff has managed to maintain a lighthearted and grounded approach to her career. The nickname “Coco” encapsulates this spirit, serving as a reminder that while Gauff is a fierce competitor, she is also a young woman with a bright personality and a strong support system behind her.

The Impact of the “Coco” Brand

As Gauff’s career has progressed, the “Coco” brand has grown alongside it. The name has become synonymous with her fearless approach to the game, her resilience in the face of challenges, and her status as one of the most exciting young talents in tennis. Sponsors, fans, and the media have all embraced the “Coco” persona, helping to elevate Gauff’s profile and make her a global icon.

But beyond the commercial and public relations aspects, the name “Coco” represents something deeply personal for Gauff. It is a reflection of her journey, from a young girl with big dreams to a Grand Slam champion. It is a name that carries the weight of expectations, but also the support of her family, who have been with her every step of the way.

Looking Ahead: Coco Gauff’s Future

As Gauff continues to build on her already impressive resume, the name “Coco” will undoubtedly remain a central part of her identity. Whether she is known as “Cori” or “Coco,” what matters most is the legacy she is creating—a legacy defined by hard work, determination, and a love for the game of tennis.

At just 20 years old, Gauff has already achieved so much, but her journey is far from over. As she steps onto the court at the US Open, the name “Coco” will once again echo through the stadium, a reminder of the young girl who dared to dream big and is now living those dreams. And while the origins of the name may remain a mystery, what is clear is that “Coco” Gauff is here to stay—a force to be reckoned with in the world of tennis, and a role model for future generations.

In the end, the story of “Coco” Gauff is not just about a name. It is about the person behind the name, a person who has already left an indelible mark on the sport and who continues to inspire with every match she plays. Whether it’s her father or her aunt who first called her “Coco,” the name has come to symbolize everything that Gauff represents: talent, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible with the ri

ght mindset and support.