Following in Serena Williams’ footsteps and becoming the next Serena are two different ball games. While Coco Gauff is a big fan of Serena Williams, paper talk about the 20-year-old becoming the next Serena is rampant.
Recently, the third-ranked tennis player shared a video of an interview in which she talked about dreaming big and chasing records on the tennis court. In that conversation, she clearly stated that she wanted to be her own authentic self and carve out a legacy that would be quite distinct from the 23-time Grand Slam champion.
“People compare me to Serena, but I’ve never said, I want to be her. I just want to be me. I want to have my own story. My life, my rule is to just dream big and let’s see what,” Gauff stated, underscoring her desire to create her unique path in the world of tennis.
The video emphasized the idea of dreaming big, in collaboration with Baker Tilly US, a leading advisory CPA firm. The caption read, “Now what? Just watch me 💪🏾 Catch a glimpse into my recent conversation with @bakertillyus to discuss my determination to dream big.”
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Last year, before the US Open, she again responded to the comparisons between her and the 42-year-old tennis legend. Speaking to PEOPLE, the US Open champion stated that she is “not trying to fulfill those footsteps whatsoever.” She continued, “Obviously, I do want to be the best version of myself and be the best that I can be.”
Although Gauff acknowledges that Serena Williams’ influence changed the way she played, she remains focused on her individuality. She even incorporated a particular aspect of the 23-time Grand Slam champion’s training regimen, which aided in her progression to the quarterfinals of the Italian Open.
While the comparisons to Serena Williams are flattering, Gauff remains focused on establishing her individual identity within the sport. Her determination to dream big and commitment to authenticity highlight her resolve to leave an indelible mark on tennis history, distinct from those who came before her.
Coco Gauff in 2024
LWWWWWLWWW At the moment ranked no.3 (career-high), Coco played her last match on the 16th of May when she capitulated to world no.1 Iga Swiatek 6-4 6-3 in the semifinal in Rome (draw).
Until now, during this year Coco has managed to achieve a 25-8 win-loss record. Gauff conquered 1 title in Auckland.
Coco Gauff |
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