According to Coco Gauff, it’s important for her to serve as a positive role model besides playing tennis. On Sunday, Gauff defeated Maria Sakkari in straight sets to win the Citi Open. The American won her first WTA 500 tournament with a victory over the Czech in the final, 6-2, 6-3.
Gauff spent a lot of time posing for photos with fans and giving them autographs after the victory. Gauff said it was vital for her to interact with fans and make sure they aren’t unhappy when questioned about how she saw herself as a role model during the post-match news conference.
In the post-match conference, she said: “Yeah, for me it [being a great role model besides being a great tennis player] is really important. I don’t know how much the ticket prices cost or anything, but for people to pay money to see me and wait after the trophy ceremony in this heat, to ask for an autograph, I try to sign as many as I can.”
She further stated that: “A lot of them were kids. I remember being in that moment. Yeah, you know, a lot of people ask, they strip me from everything. Some people asked for my shoes, but I needed to walk. Some people asked for my bracelet. I was, like, This was a gift from someone. I can’t give you that
Gauff added: “They asked for my earrings and hair ties and everything. Usually, I don’t mind giving. I always try to. Sometimes I try to ration it out because I am going to another tournament. Yeah, I love doing it.”
Gauff continued by saying that it’s definitely worth the extra effort to spend time with fans because of the expression of happiness on their faces.
Coco Gauff in 2023
Ranked no.7, Gauff played her last match on the 6th of August when she beat world no.8 Maria Sakkari 6-2 6-3 in the final in Washington to win her 4th career title.
At the moment, during this season Coco owns a compiled 31-12 record. Coco has won 2 titles in 2023 in Auckland and Washington.
Gauff is scheduled to play next at the U.S. Open (U.S. Open). She will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 28th of August.
Coco Gauff |
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