At 20, one can hardly imagine anything better than what Coco Gauff has achieved in her career. The American tennis sensation has gone on to win many titles and establish herself as World No. 2, with the biggest of them all coming at the 2023 US Open. Additionally, she has set high standards as far as youngsters in sports are concerned. Not only has she won laurels on the court but also off the court. Earlier today, the American tennis sensation won the best tennis player award at the ESPYs Award Show. However, Gauff was left bewildered over this achievement.

Gauff had her idol, Serena Williams, as the host of the glamorous show. The American legend stunned in a glittering black outfit and played a perfect host on this big occasion. Meanwhile, Gauff was in awe of Serena Williams as she hosted the show, saying, “hahaha i am loving @serenawilliams hosting the #ESPYS24.” 

At the ESPYs, Gauff faced intense competition from the likes of Iga Swiatek, Carlos Alcaraz, and Novak Djokovic. However, her 2023 US Open victory proved to be the difference as Gauff was voted as the best tennis player here. Interestingly, Gauff had no hopes of winning this award as she felt that the likes of Swiatek, Djokovic, and Alcaraz were far superior to her.

The American sensation took to Twitter to share her bewilderment over winning the ESPYS award and revealed, “apparently I won an espy. thank you. I am super grateful! I wish I could’ve attended! thank you to every one who voted.”

While it was Gauff’s maiden ESPYs win, her idol, Serena Williams, has won an astonishing 12 awards here. The American sensation grew up watching Williams play and is trying to follow in her footsteps. However, in doing so, she wants to be the best version of herself instead of trying to be Williams.

Coco Gauff chalks out the path to glory

After Williams retired in 2022, American tennis was left with a huge void. The American legend’s achievements were second to none, and there wasn’t an established name to look forward to after Williams retired. However, in came Coco Gauff, who began dominating the women’s circuit.

While Gauff idolized Williams, she wants to be herself, instead of trying to be Williams. The young WTA pro mentioned, “I want to be the best version of myself. Watching Serena I was like, there’s no-one going to be greater than her. I definitely want to at least get to double digits in Slams. I just want to be the best me, try to win as many Slams as possible, and see where life takes me.” 

After the highs of the 2023 US Open win, Gauff has suffered a slight dip in form. This has prevented her from winning a major title this year. Nonetheless, Gauff is a fighter like Williams, and expect her to come back stronger in the upcoming tournaments.