Serena Williams' greatness sparked Coco Gauff's dream, says father in emotional tribute

Before the trophies, the headlines, and the Rolex deals, Coco Gauff was just a wide-eyed five-year-old watching TV with her dad. That night in 2010, as Serena Williams clinched another Australian Open title, something clicked.

Corey Gauff, Coco's father and longtime coach, recently opened up about that pivotal moment on the Rolex YouTube series "Game Changer." He re Serena's win so vividly that it still gives him chills. "I looked at Coco and said, 'She's the GOAT.' Coco asked what that meant, and when I explained, she told me, 'I want to be a GOAT too.'"

He didn't waste a minute. The next day, he bought her first racket. From that moment on, Coco's dream was set in motion.

From Serena's shadow to her own spotlight

Serena Williams wasn't just a champion,she was a catalyst. Her dominance on the court and confidence off it gave Coco a template for greatness. While the tennis world sees hints of Serena in Coco's powerful forehand and fearless presence, Corey sees something deeper: belief.

"That spark Serena lit in her, it never went out," he shared. "Even when she lost early at Wimbledon in 2023, she still had that fire." Months later, that same fire carried her to a historic US Open title.

Rolex shines a light on the journey

In "Rolex presents: Coco Gauff , Game Changer," the luxury brand goes beyond glitz, choosing to showcase the roots of Coco's rise. The short film highlights her ion, discipline, and the system behind her, especially her father.

It's not just about endorsements or achievements. For Rolex, it's about the essence of champions. Coco, with her mix of humility and ambition, embodies that perfectly.

As she prepares for Roland Garros and chases her second Grand Slam, Gauff is still powered by the same energy that sparked her dream 14 years ago.

"She believed early," Corey says. "And that belief? It came from watching Serena be great."