James Harris/CNN Underscored
After Coco Gauff won her first U.S. Open in September, plenty of sports commentators understandably credited her smashing forehand, big serve, and amazing stamina. It turns out the 19-year-old also had a secret weapon in her arsenal.
“Before I walk on the court for a
match, I’m always listening to music,” Gauff says. “Usually something that pumps me up!” Her favorite song? Jaden Smith’s “Icon.”
As for the headphones playing her music? Ahead of the 2023 French Open in May, Gauff announced that she had partnered with audio equipment company Bose. “It was such an easy decision for me,” she says. “I listen to music every day, but especially in competition. I always have my headphones on because it puts me in the zone and allows me to focus.”
When she’s not in must-win playing mode, Gauff chills like most other 19-year-olds. She says she spends her off days going to the movies and watching Netflix. She also likes to explore the cities she travels to for tournaments and enjoys “trying the local cuisine.” And during her time back home in Delray Beach, Florida, she plays super-fan. “I love going to my brothers’ sporting events,” she says. “My youngest brother plays football, and my middle brother plays baseball.”
But overall, Gauff adds, “I give my best every day.”
Below, Gauff lists seven of her everyday essentials for CNN Underscored.
When it comes to warming up and cooling down, Gauff says she likes to use a foam roller because “it loosens my muscles and is effective on all parts of the body.” In the market for one? Consider buying this high-density best-seller from Amazon.
Skin protection is extra important when you spend most days on a shadeless tennis court with the sun beating down on you. Gauff’s sunscreen of choice? This fast-absorbing SPF 50 lotion that’s made with sunflower extract and is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
“I am loving my 650 shoes right now,” says Gauff, who is partnered with New Balance. The leather hi-tops — a throwback to the 1980s style — are available in multiple colors and feature a puff and stitch collar. Plus, they’re unisex!
Jessica Roberts serves up the latest in the world of tennis. With a love for the racket sport, she reports on tennis matches, player rankings, and Grand Slam events, ensuring readers stay informed about the tennis world.
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