Coco Gauff, a lifelong fan of the Miami Hurricanes, showcased her excitement for her favorite college football team during her match at the Australian Open. After winning against Kamilla Rakhimova with a score of 6-2, 6-3 in the first round, the World No. 3 made a fun gesture by writing “Go Canes!” on the camera’s lens cap, highlighting her support for the University of Miami as they prepare to face the Indiana Hoosiers in the National Championship game on Monday night.
During her post-match press conference, Gauff expressed her desire to watch the championship game, though she acknowledged the challenge of balancing her practice schedule with the game time. “I think I will [watch],” she shared, noting that her practice is scheduled for noon, shortly after the game’s start at 11:30. “May have to change that,” she added with a smile.
Gauff also shared a lighthearted prediction for the game, suggesting a final score of “23-14, Canes,” even admitting that she generated the score somewhat randomly. Having been a Miami fan for most of her life, she mentioned it is thrilling for her team to reach such a prestigious event.
With this recent victory over Rakhimova, Gauff furthered her remarkable record, marking her 75th career win at a Grand Slam. This accomplishment places her among a select group of women, as she becomes the fourth player aged 21 or younger since 2000 to achieve this milestone, joining the ranks of tennis greats Venus Williams, Serena Williams, and Maria Sharapova.
Looking ahead, Gauff will compete against Serbian player Olga Danilovic, who recently secured a victory over Venus Williams in her opening match. Gauff respects her opponent’s abilities, saying, “I think she’s a great player,” and acknowledges the unique challenge posed by a left-handed competitor. “It will be tough. I think if I stay with my game, hopefully I can come out with the result.”
This match will mark their first-ever meeting on the court, and Gauff is eager for the challenge that lies ahead. As she moves forward in the tournament, the combination of her own accomplishments and her passion for the Hurricanes adds a personal touch to her Australian Open journey.