By Leo Canaparo, sports journalist and tennis coach
In the fiercely competitive world of women’s tennis, few players have emerged with the strength, maturity, and versatility that define Cori “Coco” Gauff. From her earliest steps on the professional tour, it was clear that she wasn’t just another promising youngster — she was a true talent with the makings of a champion. Today, with major titles under her belt and a Grand Slam final to her name, Coco has evolved from rising star to a firmly established force on the WTA circuit.
Gauff burst onto the international scene in 2019, when at just 15 years old she stunned Venus Williams at Wimbledon. That match was symbolic not only for the stature of her opponent, but for the competitive poise Coco showed. She didn’t flinch, she didn’t hesitate. Since then, her development has been steady — physically, mentally, and especially in her tactical understanding of the game.
What stands out most about Coco is her versatility. She has a unique ability to adapt to different playing styles and surfaces, but what truly sets her apart is her gift for turning defense into offense almost instinctively. She can be pushed well behind the baseline, under pressure from a powerful opponent, and in a blink she’s counterpunching with a pinpoint passing shot or a heavy forehand that flips the point in her favor. Her footwork is exceptional, allowing her to cover the court with ease and retrieve balls most would consider lost.
Her two-handed backhand is solid, heavy, and incredibly consistent, but it’s her ability to mix things up — changing pace, spin, height, and direction — that makes her such a constant threat. In an era where the game can sometimes become predictable, Coco brings tactical creativity that harkens back to the great strategists of past generations.
Above all, it’s her mental strength that elevates her above the rest. Gauff has an admirable ability to stay focused during key moments. She’s proven it time and again, particularly in finals. At the 2023 US Open, for instance, she staged a memorable comeback in the final, managing the pressure of the moment in front of thousands of fans, keeping her emotions in check with the composure of a seasoned veteran, and executing with surgical precision when it mattered most.
There’s no doubt that we are witnessing a player who not only possesses talent, but also the mentality and adaptability needed to dominate the tour for years to come. Coco Gauff isn’t just the future of women’s tennis — she is its present. And her game — versatile, intelligent, and full of character — is a perfect example of how matches are won at the highest level: not just with power, but with poise and heart.