Coco Gauff: A Rising Star in Tennis and Business
As Wimbledon approaches, attention turns to Coco Gauff, the 21-year-old tennis sensation renowned for her impressive skills on the court and her proactive approach off it. In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Gauff shared her aspiration to transition into business, acknowledging the complexities of navigating life as both an athlete and an entrepreneur.
Reflections on Stardom
Although the term “star” was used by the reporter, Gauff hesitated to label herself as such, reflecting on her childhood desire to pursue interests beyond tennis.
“It feels weird to call myself that,”
she admitted, but recognized the importance of expanding her horizons. Gauff enters Wimbledon, commencing next week, with significant accolades to her name, including Grand Slam titles and the prestigious No. 2 ranking—a testament to her undeniable talent.
Beyond the Court
Beyond tennis, Gauff has established herself as a powerful voice on social issues and has successfully engaged with fans through social media. Financially, she has become a trailblazer; in 2022, she was declared the highest-earning female athlete globally, amassing over $30 million—most of which came from partnerships with companies like UPS, New Balance, Rolex, and Barilla, rather than competition winnings.
Preparing for the Future
In a strategic move, Gauff recently launched her own management firm, aiming to lay the groundwork for her future after her sports career.
“I want to start to step up for post-career,”
she shared, emphasizing the importance of preparing for life beyond tennis early. Gauff recognized that venturing into the business realm does not come as intuitively to her as tennis does, and she expressed a desire to enhance her knowledge in this area.
Mentorship and Collaboration
Engaging with UPS in a new initiative, Gauff will work alongside business coach Emma Grede, known for her successful collaborations with celebrities on various brands. This partnership will involve mentoring three small business owners, allowing Gauff to leverage her influence and connect with younger generations of entrepreneurs.
Betsy Wilson, UPS’s VP of digital marketing and brand activation, remarked on Gauff’s impactful connection to Gen-Z and her relevance in the cultural landscape. For Gauff, working with Grede not only provides her with invaluable insights but also sets the stage for future opportunities as she navigates her path in business.
“It’s really cool to learn from someone like her,”
Gauff said, expressing excitement about future collaborations.
