SUMMARY
- After Andy Roddick's remarks about her father Corey, Coco Gauff commented on the stereotypes around black parents in tennis.
- Coco emphasized the need to recognize the positive contributions of Black parents.
Coco Gauff, the teenage tennis sensation, finds herself in the limelight following Andy Roddick’s comments about her father, Corey Gauff. Roddick’s recognition of Corey’s humility and his ability to support Coco without seeking the spotlight struck a chord with many, especially Coco considering the prevailing stereotypes surrounding Black parents specifically the fathers in the tennis world as per Coco.
Andy said, “It’s been spoken about a little bit but it needs to be spoken about more. Especially in our sport where there has been a negative history of fathers of women tennis players being psychopaths and being irresponsible to the total human.”
He later praised Coco’s dad Corey about the hard work he put in for his daughter which is very little talked about. Reflecting on this, Coco expresses, “I’m glad that other people see that [my dad].”
“That man has supported me through so much.”
Coco Gauff and her dad Corey, together from the beginning ❤️✊ pic.twitter.com/Kxn3wbcwvA
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) September 9, 2023
Coco Gauff lamented the stigma attached to black fathers, noting, “And I know that they have that stigma. The world in general, especially in America with Black fathers, it’s always a thing that Black fathers aren’t in their kids’ lives or that they are not great leaders or households, great fathers.”
Beyond her father’s support, Coco acknowledges the crucial role her mother plays in their family dynamic. Together, they form a strong support system that enables Coco to pursue her tennis dreams with confidence. She emphasizes, “I’m grateful to have blessed and great parents.” Moreover, Coco appreciates the recognition her father is receiving.
She acknowledges his humility, stating, “He won’t shout from the rooftops how great a person he is.” Yet, she is pleased that others are beginning to see his greatness. Coco feels fortunate to have a father who prioritizes her well-being and allows her talent to shine. With her family’s steadfast support behind her, Coco remains determined to leave her mark on the tennis world.
Corey and Candi Gauff, guiding light to Coco’s tennis journey
Coco Gauff comes from a family with a strong sports background. Her parents, Corey and Candi Gauff have been instrumental in shaping her tennis journey from its start. Both Corey and Candi were college athletes themselves, with Corey excelling in basketball at Georgia State University and Candi showcasing her talent as a star heptathlete at Florida State University.
Corey Gauff, despite his background in basketball, took on the role of Coco’s first tennis coach. His extensive study of tennis legends like Venus and Serena Williams enabled him to guide Coco’s early development in the sport. Over the years, Corey transitioned from coaching to providing unwavering support, while Candi assumed a nurturing role, embodying the essence of parenthood.
Coco Gauff thanks her parents after winning US Open:
“Today was the first time I’ve seen my dad cry 😂 Thank you guys. You believed in me from the beginning. I’ve been coming to this tournament, siting right there watching Venus & Serena compete. It’s incredible..” 🥹 pic.twitter.com/xRLhWdu8oV
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 9, 2023
Their move to Delray Beach, Florida, underlined the family’s commitment to Coco’s tennis career, providing her with access to elite training facilities and coaching. Despite their daughter’s meteoric rise in tennis, Corey and Candi have remained grounded. They have offered her invaluable encouragement and maintained a supportive environment for Coco’s continued success.
