‘Sweeter than I Could Imagine,’ says Coco Gauff, US Open 2023 champion, the youngest American to win since Serena Williams in 1999.
In an exciting showdown at the 2023 US Open, 19-year-old Coco Gauff secured her place in tennis history. The crowd favorite by the NYC spectators, Gauff displayed remarkable resilience and determination, securing her first major women’s singles title. In doing so, she became the youngest American to clinch this prestigious honor since the legendary Serena Williams in 1999.
Facing off powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka, Gauff weathered a storm in the form of an early onslaught from her opponent. Sabalenka’s powerful start didn’t deter the young Floridian, who fought back to win the championship in a gripping three-set match with a final score of 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.
In the joy of her triumph, Gauff expressed her disbelief and gratitude. “I feel a little bit in shock at this moment,” she admitted. Becoming a teenage Grand Slam champion was undoubtedly challenging, especially despite doubters and setbacks. During her speech, Gauff even took a moment to acknowledge those who had doubted her, saying, “To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, you were adding gas to it.”
What a remarkable achievement at 19, on the very courts where she once watched her idols, Serena and Venus Williams, compete when she was just a child. The match drew the attention of celebrities, including former President Barack Obama, who sent his congratulations via social media on this momentous occasion.
In the post-match ceremony, Gauff struggled to find words to express her gratitude, thanking her parents with a touch of humor. She shared, “I’m just thankful for this moment; I don’t have any words for it, to be honest.” Gauff even poked fun at her emotional father, revealing, “This is the first time I’ve ever seen my dad cry — he doesn’t want me to tell you that.”
Her final thank you was to Billie Jean King, who presented her with a check for $3 million on the 50th anniversary of King’s successful fight for equal pay at the US Open for women.
Earmarked as the future of tennis since the age of 15, Coco Gauff has now solidified her place in history as the 11th teenager ever to win a Grand Slam singles title. Her journey from a 15-year-old breakout star to a 19-year-old tennis champion serves as an inspiration for young girls, especially Black girls aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
