From meeting Michelle Obama to dominating front-page headlines worldwide, Coco Gauff has been everywhere this summer. The 15-year-old even proved she may have a future career in front of the camera with her flawless performance at Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day on Saturday.
But at least for the foreseeable future, Gauff is content to let her racquet do the talking. Ahead of her main-draw debut at the US Open [she will take on Russian Anastasia Potapova in her first-round match in Louis Armstrong Stadium; click here to purchase reserved tickets], she spoke with USOpen.org about her favorite memories of this event and how she likes to switch off away from the courts.
USOpen.org: What about New York and the US Open stands out for you the most?
Coco Gauff: There have been so many firsts for me in New York. The US Open was the first tournament I watched in person when I was 8 years old. The first international tournament I played in [Little Mo] was in New York when I was 8, and my first major junior final was at the US Open [in 2017]. Now, being able to play my first main draw here is really cool.
And then participating in Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day is a dream come true. I was able to go to it when I was 8. I really love the US Open and can only imagine how great it’s going to be to play in front of the home crowd.
USOpen.org: Are there any US Open matches that stand out in particular for you?
Coco Gauff: I forget what year, but I remember watching Venus [Williams] play in person for one of her first-round matches. I got to sit in the front row with my dad, and I think I got a signed ball after the match.
USOpen.org: What do you like to do off the court when you’re in New York?
Coco Gauff: I love to go see “The Lion King” on Broadway. It’s my favorite thing ever. I’ve gone to see it five times, six if we get a chance to go this year! Walking around Times Square is an experience in itself, as well.
USOpen.org: There’s a good chance you might get to play in one of the stadiums this year. Have you thought about what that might be like?
Coco Gauff: Playing on Ashe would be a dream; same with Louis. I’ve gotten to play on the Grandstand before but can only imagine what it would be like to play on a bigger court than that at the Open. I’m excited and nervous at the same time.
USOpen.org: How would you assess your form coming into the tournament?
Coco Gauff: I feel great mentally, physically, emotionally. I’m just excited to have gotten the wild card, so I hope to make the most of the opportunity.
