In the hushed hallways of the US Open, a rising tennis star is discreetly drawing her name into the record books of the sport. Coco Gauff, only two steps away from fulfilling the dream of every American, has got the attention of a tennis legend. Maria Sharapova, the 2006 US Open champion, recently gave her support to the young wonder, to emulate the achievements of her fiercest on-court rival, Serena Williams. In an exclusive interview, the Russian ace shared admiration for the American tennis star.

Gauff has left her mark as one of the most outspoken personalities in tennis. In addition to her tennis abilities that have separated her; it’s her voice for change that has genuinely made her a champion figure. Sharapova shared some kind words, admiring the young star’s work on and off the court.

Maria Sharapova shares strong support for American star Coco Gauff at the US Open

In an exclusive interview with SBJ’s Joe Lemire, Maria Sharapova showed her authentic appreciation of Coco Gauff. Her words have weight in the tennis world, given her transient journey to fame as a teen. Yet, what separates Coco Gauff in Maria Sharapova’s eyes goes past her remarkable skills. Sharapova sees in Gauff an eloquent and strong supporter for change. The Russian shared that Gauff has an amazing head on her shoulders and a great vision of the game.

The Russian recently showed up at the US Open on behalf of IBM to examine its latest innovations. Gauff is leading another generation of players who embrace innovation and data analytics to evolve their performances.

Sharapova said, “I hope it’s Coco [Gauff]. If I’m predicting, I think she has an amazing head on her shoulders, I think she has a great vision of the game, and she also has this amazing voice as a young woman for change. She’s created a platform for herself.”

Further stressing on Gauff’s unashamed stance on social issues and leading a new generation of athletes who are unafraid to utilize their platform to make a difference, the Russian tennis legend said, “She’s way above her age in terms of her thoughts and how she speaks, and I find that professionalism so impressive. And that’s hard to find.” Sharapova’s journey, set apart by wins and hardships, permits her to see this admirable value in Gauff.

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With the support of Sharapova, Gauff stays on the cusp of excellence. As the tournament advances, fans and analysts will without a doubt be watching eagerly to check whether Gauff can proceed with her noteworthy run.

Gauff’s recent triumphs at Washington and Cincinnati had highlighted how she is finally living up to the high expectations set on her by fans. Do you think the American teenage sensation will finally secure her first Grand Slam title in Flushing Meadows? Let us know in the comments.

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