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Nineteen-year-old Coco Gauff is sharing an inspirational message for her fellow “young athletes” after winning her first grand slam title in the 2023 US Open.
According to PEOPLE, Gauff defeated Aryna Sablenka in a “three-set slugfest” at the US Open on Saturday. The outlet reports that this makes the nineteen-year-old the “youngest American” to win the title since Serena Williams in 1999.
Afterward, the teenager reportedly told the crowd she was “a little bit in shock.” Then, she later explained that she is “just thankful for this moment.”
“I’m just thankful for this moment, I don’t have any words for it to be honest.”
Furthermore, Gauff told the public during a post-match ceremony she knew if she didn’t give it her “all,” she “had no shot a winning.”
Shortly after Gauff’s historic win, footage surfaced of her, at eight years old, dancing at the 2012 US Open. The video was shared by The Shade Room, which prompted many to applaud Gauff’s full circle moment further.
Instagram user @marty_sandiego wrote.
“I LOVE THIS! Shoutout to her parents who made sure she can see herself there years before ! Congratulations @cocogauff ❤️❤️❤️”
“She literally has proof that dreams do come true, this is such a major flex 🙌🏽”
On top of experiencing the full circle moment, Gauff also received praise and support from Serena Williams.
“Ahhhhhhhhhhh!!!! Amazing!!!!!!!! @cocogauff,” Williams wrote on her Instagram Story alongside a photo of the 19-year-old, as per Blavity.
Additionally, fellow tennis legend Roger Federer and the former First Lady Michelle Obama applauded Gauff.
In an interview published with VIBE on Monday, Gauff reflected on her historic “victory.” Additionally, she shared inspiring words about “representation” for other “young athletes.”
“Representation is so important, and I am honored to be able to show young athletes that you should never stop pushing to achieve your dreams,” the 19-year-old explained. “I’ve always believed that age is just a number, and your dreams are there to be chased no matter how old you are. This victory means the world to me, and I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams with determination and passion.”
Furthermore, Gauff also thanked her “family and my team” for their support.
Roomies, what do you think of Coco Gauff’s sentiments for other “young athletes”? Also, please join us in sharing congratulations for the nineteen-year-old!
