Coco Gauff has just done what few dared to imagine—she’s matched an early-career milestone once held by Serena Williams, the greatest American player of the modern era. At just 20 years old, Gauff has racked up five WTA titles before turning 21, equaling Serena’s own prodigious rise. But as the tennis world buzzes with excitement, waiting for Gauff to make her charge for the World No. 1 ranking, she’s delivered a curveball no one expected: she’s not interested. At least, not yet.
“I’m not chasing No.1 right now,” Gauff said after her latest title win. “It’s a dream, of course, but I’m more focused on my game than the number next to my name.”
That revelation caught fans and commentators off guard. In a sport where rankings often dictate respect and relevance, Gauff’s calm dismissal of the No. 1 obsession feels almost radical. But it also speaks volumes about her maturity, her self-awareness, and the way she’s rewriting the rulebook for what a young tennis phenom should be.
Let’s be clear—Gauff is no stranger to pressure. Ever since she stunned Venus Williams at Wimbledon in 2019, the spotlight has been relentless. Many immediately anointed her the “next Serena,” a title heavy with expectation. But rather than crumble or sprint for the summit, Gauff has chosen a more patient path—one that prioritizes growth over glory, evolution over escalation.
“I’ve learned that chasing rankings can distract you,” Gauff continued. “If I keep improving, the results—and the rankings—will come naturally.”
Her journey since winning the 2023 US Open has been a testament to that philosophy. Gauff has displayed a level of consistency and resilience far beyond her years. She’s added finesse to her power, variety to her tactics, and above all, she’s learned to thrive under pressure. Her composure, especially in tight third sets, has become her trademark.
Matching Serena’s record is no small feat. Serena went on to become a 23-time Grand Slam champion and the face of women’s tennis for over two decades. And now, Gauff finds herself walking a similar path—but with the wisdom of hindsight and the benefit of Serena’s legacy to learn from.
Fans, meanwhile, are divided. Some celebrate her focus and grounded mindset. Others worry that she’s holding back. But perhaps Gauff’s refusal to rush is exactly what sets her apart. She’s not just playing to top a leaderboard—she’s building a legacy that lasts.
Social media erupted after the record-tying win, with posts reading: “Serena 2.0 is HERE!” and “Coco’s coming for everything… just on her own time.”
And that’s the point. Gauff isn’t here to replicate Serena’s legacy—she’s here to redefine what greatness looks like in her own image. Whether the World No. 1 ranking comes this year or next, one thing’s for sure: Coco Gauff isn’t in a race. She’s in control. And that might be the biggest power move of all.