Who won the US Open in 2023? The answer to that question resounded across the tennis world with thunderous applause and jubilation – it was none other than the remarkable Coco Gauff. In a stunning and hard-fought victory, the 19-year-old American tennis prodigy claimed her first major singles title at the prestigious US Open, capping off an incredible journey that began years ago on the tennis courts of Delray Beach, Florida. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the inspiring story of Coco Gauff, her remarkable career thus far, and her unforgettable triumph at the US Open in 2023.
Introduction to Coco Gauff
Cori “Coco” Gauff, born on March 13, 2004, in Atlanta, Georgia, is a name that has become synonymous with youthful talent, unwavering determination, and an indomitable spirit in the world of tennis. From her early beginnings on the courts to her meteoric rise to fame, Gauff’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Coco Gauff is currently (as of 11/09/2023) World no.1 in Women’s Doubles and World no.3 in Women’s Singles.
Who is Coco Gauff?
Early Life and Tennis Beginnings
Coco Gauff was born to athletic parents, Candi and Corey Gauff, both of whom had distinguished collegiate sports backgrounds. Her father was a college basketball player at Georgia State University, while her mother excelled in track and field at Florida State University. It was evident from the start that Coco was destined for greatness in sports.
Coco’s tennis journey commenced at the tender age of six, and by the time she was seven, her family decided to move back to Delray Beach, Florida, to provide her with better training opportunities. Here, she began working with Gerard Loglo at the New Generation Tennis Academy when she was just eight years old.
Despite initial reluctance to practice and a preference for playing with friends, Coco’s passion for tennis blossomed. At the age of ten, she clinched the USTA Clay Court National 12-and-under title, making her the youngest champion in the tournament’s history.
Mentorship Under Patrick Mouratoglou
Coco’s talent didn’t go unnoticed, and her potential was recognized early on. At the age of ten, she embarked on a pivotal journey when she started training at the Mouratoglou Academy in France, under the guidance of Patrick Mouratoglou, the renowned coach of Serena Williams. This move marked a significant turning point in her career.
Mouratoglou was impressed by Coco’s unwavering determination and fighting spirit, and he even sponsored her through his Champ’Seed foundation, which supports talented junior players who lack the financial means for high-level training.
Coco Gauff and her Junior Tennis Success
Gauff’s ascent continued as she made her mark in junior tennis. In 2018, she claimed the junior French Open singles title, solidifying her status as the world’s No. 1 junior player. Her success extended to doubles as well, where she secured a major victory at the 2018 US Open alongside her partner.
Coco Gauff’s Career So Far and Recent Achievements
Coco Gauff
Emergence on the WTA Tour
In March 2019, Coco Gauff made her debut on the WTA Tour at the Miami Open, signalling her arrival on the professional stage. However, it was at Wimbledon later that year where she captured the world’s attention. As the youngest player in the tournament’s history to qualify for the main draw, she defeated the legendary Venus Williams in the first round and advanced to the fourth round.
Breakthrough at the 2019 Linz Open
One of the defining moments of her early career came in 2019 at the Linz Open, where she clinched her first WTA Tour singles title at just 15 years and seven months old. This victory made her the youngest singles title-holder on the Tour since 2004, and it was a testament to her incredible potential.
Coco Gauff’s Remarkable Progress
Coco Gauff’s journey was not without its challenges, but her resilience and dedication shone brightly. In 2021, she reached her first major final in women’s doubles at the US Open and her first major singles final at the 2022 French Open. Her consistent progress and impressive performances drew the attention of tennis enthusiasts worldwide.
Rising Through the Ranks
Gauff’s remarkable rise continued in 2023. She secured her first WTA 1000 title at the Cincinnati Masters, showcasing her prowess on the court. Her relentless pursuit of excellence saw her climb the rankings, and she entered the US Open as a formidable contender.
Coco Gauff’s US Open Victory
Coco Gauff
The Summer of Coco Gauff
The summer of 2023 will forever be remembered as the “Summer of Coco.” With an unyielding spirit and newfound determination, Coco Gauff embarked on a stunning hard-court swing. It began with her triumph at the Washington WTA 500 event, followed by a victory at the Cincinnati WTA 1000 tournament. But the pinnacle of her summer aspirations was to hold the coveted US Open trophy in her hands.
A Remarkable Victory
In the final showdown at the US Open, Coco Gauff faced the formidable Aryna Sabalenka, the tournament’s second seed and one of the best players in the world. Gauff, however, proved that her mental fortitude and tactical prowess knew no bounds. Although she dropped the first set, she staged a brilliant comeback, winning the match 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.
Historic Achievement
With this victory, Coco Gauff etched her name in the annals of tennis history. She became the third American teenager to win the US Open women’s title, following in the footsteps of her idol, Serena Williams, who achieved the feat in 1999. Gauff’s win marked her 12th consecutive victory and 18th in her last 19 matches since her Wimbledon defeat.
The Impact of Venus and Serena
In a heartfelt moment, Coco Gauff acknowledged the profound influence of Venus and Serena Williams on her journey. She credited them as the reason she held the US Open trophy and allowed her to believe in her dreams from a young age.
A Clinic in Defensive Tennis
Throughout the tournament, Gauff displayed a remarkable ability to adapt her game. Her offensive style took a back seat, and she delivered a clinic in defensive tennis. Her exceptional movement and anticipation on the court left her opponents struggling to find answers. Gauff’s forehand, which she affectionately calls “Black Ice,” froze her adversaries with its precision and power.
The Future is Bright
As Coco Gauff hoisted the US Open trophy, the world witnessed the emergence of a tennis superstar. With her youth, talent, and undeniable determination, she has firmly established herself as one of the most promising players in the sport.
FAQ
Who is Coco Gauff?
Coco Gauff, born Cori Gauff, is an American professional tennis player known for her incredible talent, determination, and youthful spirit. She was born on March 13, 2004, in Atlanta, Georgia, and started playing tennis at the age of six. Under the guidance of coaches like Patrick Mouratoglou, she quickly rose through the ranks of junior tennis and made her mark on the WTA Tour.
Who won the US Open in 2023?
The US Open in 2023 was won by the remarkable Coco Gauff. In a thrilling final match, she defeated Aryna Sabalenka, securing her first major singles title and etching her name in tennis history.
Coco Gauff’s journey from a young girl with a racquet to a Grand Slam champion is a testament to her talent, determination, and unwavering belief in herself. Her victory at the US Open is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable career, and the tennis world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the “Summer of Coco.”
