Key Takeaways
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Coco Gauff defeated Marta Kostyuk in Cincinnati
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She gifted her racquet to an 80-year-old fan wearing a birthday shirt
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The emotional moment was captured on video with fans cheering
A heartfelt gesture after victory
After her win over Marta Kostyuk at the Cincinnati tournament, Coco Gauff created one of the most memorable off-court moments of the week. Spotting a fan in the stands wearing a shirt that read “It’s My 80th Birthday”, Gauff approached her with a warm smile and handed over one of her racquets.
Emotional exchange with the crowd
Video footage shows Gauff leaning into the stands for a hug, while the visibly moved fan reacted with joy. Spectators around them smiled, applauded, and filmed the touching scene, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Gauff’s growing bond with fans
The gesture highlights Gauff’s connection with her supporters, reinforcing her reputation not only as a fierce competitor but also as a player who values the human side of the sport. These moments of generosity and empathy continue to strengthen her image as one of tennis’s most relatable stars.
Coco Gauff made this fan’s 80th birthday special.
After her win over Marta Kostyuk in Cincinnati, she gave this sweet lady one of her racquets.
Unforgettable. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/s8RdpVv3Ku
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 22, 2026
WTA Cincinnati - Cori Gauff's projected path
Gauff in Cincinnati, ranking, and results in 2026
Ranked no.4, Coco owns an overall 38-13 record in 2026. Coco is now playing in Cincinnati where she conquered the world no.43 Liudmila Samsonova 2-6 6-4 6-1, the world no.29 Ann Li 6-1 7-6(3), the world no.27 Marie Bouzkova 6-3 6-2 and the world no.11 Marta Kostyuk 6-2 6-2.
Cori Gauff will come up against the world no.35 Sara Bejlek in the semifinal on Saturday at 7:30 pm on Stadium Court. They have never played each other until now in top competitions.
The American won 12 titles in her career: 8 on hard courts, 2 on clay courts and 2 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
