Coco Gauff made hearts swell and jaws drop when she showed up unannounced at a junior tennis clinic in New Orleans — on the very courts that were recently refurbished in her honor. In a beautiful full-circle moment, the tennis superstar spent part of her Thanksgiving week giving back to a community that means a lot to her.
These aren’t just any public courts: they’re located at Joe W. Brown Park in New Orleans East, and earlier this year they were given a major makeover as part of the USTA’s Legacy Initiative, a huge project funded in part by her own 2023 US Open prize winnings. tennisnow.com+2PFSN+2 The courts now shine with fresh surfaces, nets, benches and a renewed sense of possibility — all because of Gauff’s commitment to making the sport more accessible. tennisnow.com
When she arrived at the park, a group of kids from a local non-profit called A’s & Aces greeted her. Their jaws dropped when they realized who was joining them — their coach for the day was none other than a two-time Grand Slam champ. Gauff didn’t just pose for photos. She jumped in, hitting balls, laughing, sharing stories from her own journey, and inspiring the youngsters with her raw energy and kindness. tennisnow.com
In an emotional moment, she spoke about her personal connection to New Orleans. It’s not just a city she’s giving to — it’s part of her roots. Her family has deep ties to the area, and she’s long believed in the power of public parks and courts as places where dreams can begin. PFSN+1 By helping refurbish this very park, she’s not only leaving a physical legacy, but also lighting a fire of hope in the kids who live there.
The USTA’s Legacy Initiative, which poured in $3 million to honor Gauff’s US Open win, has now touched more than 100 public facilities across the country. tennisnow.com+1 But this clinic wasn’t just about serving and rallying — it was a celebration, a recognition that young tennis players in under-resourced communities deserve the same opportunity she once had.
As Gauff bopped balls with the kids, cheered them on, and danced to the rhythm of New Orleans with a second-line brass band, the emotion was real. For her, this wasn’t just philanthropy — it was a homecoming. And for those young players, she didn’t just show up — she reminded them that dreams are possible.
In that moment, Coco Gauff wasn’t just a tennis champion. She was a role model, a community builder — and a living example that success is sweetest when shared.
