It wasn’t just Coco Gauff’s powerful forehands or swift footwork that got fans buzzing during her latest match at Roland Garros—it was what was happening off the court, right in her player’s box. Cameras caught a brief but crystal-clear glimpse of an unfamiliar face seated directly next to Coco’s mom, Candi Gauff… and now, the internet is losing its mind trying to figure out who he is.
The man, stylishly dressed in a navy blazer, designer sunglasses, and what appeared to be a courtside VIP pass, seemed comfortable—too comfortable—with the Gauff entourage. He laughed with Coco’s mother, clapped a little too enthusiastically after her aces, and at one point, leaned in for what looked suspiciously like a whispered joke. Naturally, fans went full CIA.
Social media exploded. “WHO is this man beside Mama Gauff???” one fan posted, alongside a blurry screenshot. “The way he smiled after her winner… that’s not just a friend,” another chimed in. Theories quickly spiraled: Is he a new coach? A brand rep? Or—gasp—a secret boyfriend?
Let’s be clear: Coco Gauff has kept her romantic life notoriously private, only offering vague soundbites about being “focused on tennis” and not distracted by the dating scene. But as we all know, one courtside appearance is all it takes to send the rumor mill into overdrive.
Even more eyebrow-raising? After the match, Gauff glanced up at the box and gave a small wave and smile directly in the mystery man’s direction. Not her coach. Not her mom. Him. Fans who caught the clip have slowed it down, analyzed it frame by frame, and dubbed it: “The Wink Seen ’Round the World.”
As of now, Coco hasn’t commented on the man’s identity—and her team remains tight-lipped. But that hasn’t stopped eager sleuths from trying to track him down, scouring tagged photos and LinkedIn profiles like pros. So far? Nada. Which only adds fuel to the theory that he’s not just a guest… he’s special.
Whether he’s a friend, a cousin, or something far more intriguing, one thing is certain—Coco Gauff has mastered not only the court but the art of subtle suspense. And if that mystery man shows up again at her next match? Well, you can bet all eyes will be on him, not the scoreboard.
