Remember when Coco said, “I really do love fashion. I love makeup. I love that type of thing,” shortly after her 2023 US Open victory? Time and again, the American tennis star has proven her words to be true! While Coco often makes headlines for her bold fashion statements: whether it’s her sleek AO kit or her recent heartfelt hair makeup tributes to the Williams sisters, she has consistently received praise from her mother, Candi, for her fashion sense. However, during the biggest night in entertainment, all eyes were on Candi as she graced the red carpet, prompting even Coco to share her admiration. But what exactly did she say?

The biggest night in the entertainment world has arrived: live from Los Angeles, and it’s the 97th Academy Awards! Film lovers, Fashionistas, and Hollywood’s finest are gathered for the Oscars, where Spanish-language musical ‘Emilia Pérez’ leads with 13 nominations this year. Other top contenders include ‘Wicked’, ‘The Brutalist’, ‘Conclave’, and ‘Anora’, with the Best Picture race still wide open. Hosted by US comedian Conan O’Brien, the ceremony kicked off at 16:00 PT (19:00 ET). However, before the awards even began, tennis fans had their eyes on a different kind of star power: Coco and Candi Gauff, stealing the spotlight on the red carpet!

Attending her 1st ever Oscars, the current 3rd seed Coco Gauff stunned in a radiant yellow ‘V-neck gown’ adorned with jewels, featuring a dramatic long train as she graced the red carpet outside Hollywood’s iconic “Dolby Theatre” alongside her mother, Candi. She completed her elegant look with her curly hair styled in a ‘chic messy bun’, dangling diamond earrings, and a gold watch. Adding to the glamour, Coco shared snapshots of her dazzling ensemble on IG, which her mom later reposted on her IG stories with three red heart emojis. But even Coco couldn’t help but be in awe later because this time, it was Candi who stole the show, mesmerizing fans with her impeccable fashion sense from the red carpet.

Just some moments ago, Candi Gauff took to IG to share a stunning carousel of photos, offering a glimpse into her unforgettable night at the 97th Academy Awards. Dressed in a striking dark ‘metallic gown’, she radiated elegance while capturing moments with actress and ‘Emmy winner Storm Reid’, who attended the event alongside her mother, ‘Robyn Simpson Reid’ while captioning the post with “Love being the plus one!!!! Oscars 2025,” Candi’s fashion statement didn’t go unnoticed as her daughter, Coco, was quick to chime in, replying with four heart eyed emojis celebrating her mom’s red carpet moment in style.

The 20-year-old tennis star shared her thoughts on preparing for the red carpet. “Hair, makeup, the whole look… I play tennis, so I’m not used to this level of glam! But it’s nice to get dressed up for the occasion. I’m just here for the vibes, enjoying everything and trying to take it all in,” she said during an interview with ‘Entertainment Tonight.’ She also expressed her support for Zoe Saldaña, whom she hoped would win the award for Best Supporting Actress.

While the mother-daughter duo stole the spotlight with their surprise appearance on the 97th Oscars red carpet, Coco continues to make waves beyond tennis, as well as fashion. Recently, she became one of the ‘youngest donors’ to a noble cause, showcasing her commitment to making a difference both on and off the court.

Coco donated $100,000 to support HBCU students

The UNCF plays a vital role in supporting minority education, aiding over 50,000 students across 1100 colleges. While ‘HBCUs’ have received significant corporate donations, Coco Gauff’s contribution of $100,000 recently to support HBCU students in competitive tennis is particularly remarkable, especially given her very young age and growing influence over the tennis fraternity. Inspired by her grandmother’s heroics, Coco later reflected on the importance of giving back, emphasizing the impact of meaningful contributions to society.

“My family has a deep-rooted history with HBCUs, going all the way back to my great-great-grandfather. From aunts and uncles to cousins, HBCUs have played a huge role in shaping who we are. Supporting UNCF in creating opportunities for student-athletes in tennis means a lot to me,” she added.

Later, she also shared her thoughts on the development of black student-athletes while adding, “As a young Black athlete, I understand how impactful it is to see people who look like me thriving in both sports and education. I want to help the next generation of student-athletes continue pursuing their passion for tennis while reaching their academic goals. My hope is that this scholarship gives more young Black players the confidence to chase their dreams, knowing they have a strong community behind them and a bright future ahead,”

At just 2020, Coco Gauff has already cemented herself as a professional icon, not just in tennis, where she’s a GS champion, but also in fashion and philanthropy. Her bold style statements and generous support for noble causes set her apart as a role model beyond the center court. Now, as she gears up for her next challenge at Indian Wells, the question remains: will she dazzle on the court again just as she does on the red carpet? What do you think?