Cori Gauff is a name that’s quickly become a household one in the world of tennis, but fans everywhere know her by a different name: Coco. The nickname has become iconic, adorning everything from ESPN headlines to the backs of fan-made T-shirts. But the question remains — why do they really call her Coco? The story behind this charming moniker is surprisingly personal and rooted in her family’s love and tradition.
Born Cori Dionne Gauff on March 13, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, Coco was introduced to tennis at a young age. Her athletic talent was nurtured early by her parents, Corey and Candi Gauff, both former collegiate athletes. While “Cori” is her given name, the nickname “Coco” was used almost from the start by family and close friends. It began as a simple, affectionate pet name — a common choice among parents for young girls named Cori or Courtney.
According to interviews with the Gauff family, the nickname stuck early on and soon became a natural part of her identity. Her father Corey once explained that they started calling her Coco when she was a toddler because it was easier for her little cousins to pronounce. Over time, even coaches, media personnel, and global fans began adopting it.
But “Coco” isn’t just a nickname — it’s a brand now. From her junior tennis days to her headline-making debut at Wimbledon in 2019, where she defeated Venus Williams at just 15 years old, the name Coco has carried an undeniable charisma. It’s youthful, marketable, and memorable — all essential for building a global sports persona. Sponsors and fans alike gravitated toward the friendly, approachable sound of “Coco,” further cementing it in the public lexicon.
Interestingly, Coco herself has embraced the nickname wholeheartedly. She’s rarely introduced as Cori in interviews or at tournaments. Her social media handles, endorsements, and even official WTA profiles refer to her as Coco. It reflects not only her fun and confident personality but also the support system behind her success — a close-knit family that believed in her potential long before the world knew her name.
In many ways, the nickname “Coco” represents the perfect fusion of talent and authenticity. It’s not a stage name created by marketers — it’s a genuine part of who she is. And as her tennis career continues to soar, there’s no doubt that “Coco” Gauff will continue to be a name the world remembers — both on and off the court.
