Coco Gauff: French Open Champ Honored at WNBA Game
- following her recent French Open title, Coco Gauff received a standing ovation at a New York Liberty game.The young tennis star, who often cites Kobe Bryant's "mamba mentality"...
- During the fourth quarter of the Liberty's 85-66 victory over the Chicago Sky, Gauff was shown on the jumbotron, prompting cheers from the crowd.
- After losing the first set in a tiebreak, Gauff rallied to win 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4.
Coco Gauff Draws Inspiration from Kobe Bryant After French Open Victory
following her recent French Open title, Coco Gauff received a standing ovation at a New York Liberty game.The young tennis star, who often cites Kobe Bryant’s “mamba mentality” as inspiration, sat courtside with bryant’s family.
During the fourth quarter of the Liberty’s 85-66 victory over the Chicago Sky, Gauff was shown on the jumbotron, prompting cheers from the crowd. Ellie the Elephant, the Liberty’s mascot, also greeted her. After the game, Gauff met Sky forward Angel Reese and celebrated with the Liberty in their locker room.
Gauff’s French Open win, where she defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, marked her second Grand Slam title. After losing the first set in a tiebreak, Gauff rallied to win 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4. She is the first American woman to win at Roland Garros as Serena Williams in 2015 and the youngest american to win the French Open since Williams in 2002.
The Liberty event created a full-circle moment, blending basketball and tennis. Gauff sat with Kobe bryant’s wife, Vanessa, and their daughters. Bryant, who died in a 2020 helicopter crash, admired Gauff’s poise at the 2019 U.S. Open when she was only 15.
Bryant advised Gauff to define her career goals and strategize how to achieve them. After reaching the 2023 U.S. Open final, Gauff quoted Bryant’s “job’s not done yet,” demonstrating his influence. She then beat Sabalenka to win her first major trophy, showcasing her mental toughness and focus.
Coco Gauff’s success at the French open highlights her dedication and the impact of Kobe Bryant’s mentorship. Her ability to stay focused and determined, even after setbacks, has been key to her achievements. The “mamba mentality” has clearly played a significant role in her journey.
The young tennis star can pursue another Grand Slam title at Wimbledon,scheduled from June 30 to July 13.
What’s next
Gauff is now setting her sights on Wimbledon, where she hopes to continue her Grand Slam success. Her recent victory has boosted her confidence, and she aims to carry this momentum into the upcoming tournament.