Coco Gauff is taking names and making history — but even in her brightest moments, she’s never forgetting the legends who paved the way. After clinching a monumental victory at the DC Open, becoming the youngest American to win the title, Gauff had just one word for her idol Venus Williams: “Gratitude.”
And that one word carried the weight of decades.
Moments after sealing her triumph in Washington, Gauff took to the mic during her post-match interview. When asked who inspired her to keep pushing during the grueling tournament, she didn’t hesitate. “Gratitude,” she said, pausing to let the moment sink in. “That’s what I feel when I think of Venus. She made this possible for girls like me.”
Talk about chills.
While the DC Open title may now have Coco’s name etched into history, she was quick to shift the spotlight. She credited Venus Williams not just for her own trailblazing success on court, but for inspiring a generation of young Black girls in tennis. Venus, who famously made her debut in Washington in the late ’90s, has long been an advocate for equality, opportunity, and fierce self-belief — all traits Gauff has inherited and embodied.
Social media lit up as fans reacted to the emotional moment. Tennis fans, influencers, and even celebs couldn’t get enough. One tweet read: “Coco honoring Venus with one word — that’s legacy in action.”
And Venus? Ever the class act, she responded within the hour. “You’ve made me so proud. Keep soaring, Coco,” she posted with a heart emoji.
This isn’t the first time Gauff has expressed admiration for the Williams sisters, but this moment hit differently. It wasn’t just about fandom — it was about a generational baton pass. Coco is no longer the precocious teenager chasing idols; she’s now firmly in her own lane, winning big, breaking records, and inspiring the next wave herself.
And yet, even at her peak, she’s looking back to say thank you. That’s the kind of humility and awareness that turns a champion into a legend.
With the US Open on the horizon and Coco Gauff riding high, the tennis world better buckle up. She’s just getting started — and she’s bringing the legacy of Venus with her every step of the way.
“Gratitude,” she said. And honestly? We’re all feeling it.
