Superstitions have always found their place in sports. While the nature and intensity of these may vary, athletes tend to have their own rituals. From Serena Williams to Coco Gauff, superstitious beliefs made their way into the minds of both elite and rising champions. Gauff, who is in rigorous practice for the US Open, has already found hers.

All eyes are on the American teen sensation, as she is in the best form of her career so far. With two back-to-back titles, the teenager is closer than ever to clinching her career-first Grand Slam on her home turf. But Gauff will need to avoid one ingredient in her pre-match meal to ensure her success.

Mushrooms, anyone? Coco Gauff certainly refuses it when she has a match

Gauff usually maintains a distance from superstitions. But when it comes to her match, she ensures to follow the same routine every time. The Citi Open champion eats the same variety of pasta with fixed ingredients. Mushrooms, however, are a big no for the champion, even though she loves them.

In an interview with ‘Insider,’ Gauff spoke about her only superstition. She said, “I do love mushrooms in pasta, I just don’t eat them pre-match.” She also shed light on the reason, stating that mushrooms cause her stomach pain. It is the last thing she wants before a match!

The 19-year-old said, “They make my stomach kind of hurt a little bit, but also, I don’t know if it’s just in my head too sometimes. I’m usually not superstitious — just with that.” The French Open finalist also stays away from dairy products, except for one thing that she cannot avoid.

READ MORE: 19-Year-Old Coco Gauff Sizzles in Regal Avatar as $5,000,000,000 Brand Squeezes Her Tennis Talent to the Last Drop Ahead of US Open 2023

America’s rising sensation has a taste that aligns with millions

Like most people, Gauff loves cheese and includes it in her pasta. She said, “I cannot give up cheese. I love cheese.” The teenager also stays away from red meat as her stomach feels heavy, and she cannot play a match after a heavy meal. The American star also disclosed her post-match meal and how she likes to celebrate.

The Cincinnati Masters champion opts for a classic combination of burgers, fries, and a diet Coke. But pre-match, choosing food is a difficult task for her. The meal has to be something filling, light, and energizing. Prepping for a match goes beyond warming up body and mind.

She is working with Brad Gilbert, Andre Agassi’s ex-coach, for her US Open run, and fans cannot wait to watch how amazing her performance will be, given the duo’s impeccable record.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘Carried The Country For So Long’ – Coco Gauff Dishes Out Serious Praise For Venus And Serena Williams With A Pinch Of Humor After Unprecedented Sweep