January 1, Coco Gauff Stands Tall Facing Style Critics

Wyatt’s Take

• Gauff pushes back on critics targeting her style choices.
• She believes female athletes deserve the freedom to express themselves.
• Fashion and confidence both matter on and off the tennis court.

American tennis pro Coco Gauff isn’t shy about making a statement with her look at big tournaments like the U.S. Open. She puts careful thought into her outfits, planning hair, nails, and fashion for the matches ahead of time.

Some folks have criticized her for getting “glammed up” during these events. As the old saying goes: “Look good, play good.”

“I don’t know why it’s such a big deal what women choose to do with their on-court or off-court looks,” Gauff said in a recent video. “I’m like, ‘I’m a human. Tennis is what I do, but it’s not who I am. And I like to express my way just like any other person likes to express themselves.’”

She explained it’s “very rare” for her to have everything—hair, nails, outfit—all set, but she works to look and feel her best at the court.

“For me, that’s just showing up on court being the best version of myself. But I definitely think if women want to do that, they should be celebrated and not persecuted for it,” Gauff said.

Gauff currently ranks third in women’s singles at the U.S. Open and recently won her first two matches, advancing to face Magdalena Fręch next. In her last victory, she wore a striking red New Balance top, a white skirt, and matching maroon accessories—just as she did in her opener.

She’s ready to defend her title, having won the U.S. Open in 2023 and the French Open earlier this year.

If you want to keep up with the heart in American sports, stick with us for stories the big networks overlook.

Wyatt Matters

Letting athletes show pride in who they are reflects the individual freedom and self-respect we champion across Middle America.

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