Coco Gauff commented on the relationship she has with tennis legend Serena Williams.
The American is one of tennis’ greatest and most influential players and she had a profound impact on Gauff as a youngster.
The 42-year-old’s Grand Slam haul of 23 is her most special achievement on court and Williams’ longevity at the highest level is something very can match.
Gauff was inspired by Williams’ achievements both on and off the court and she is now blazing her own trail in the sport.
What did Coco Gauff say about her relationship with Serena Williams?
Gauff looks to add another title to her résumé when she competes in the Olympic Games for the first time.
Ahead of opening her Olympics campaign against Ajla Tomljanovic, Gauff opened up on her relationship with Williams, who is the last American to claim an Olympic gold medal.
“Honestly I don’t have a super close relationship with her. When we see each other she is very friendly,” she said during a pre-Olympics press conference. “I have met her multiple times and she has given me advice over the years but she has moved on to other things outside of tennis.
“I haven’t seen her in person, so I haven’t really got a chance to speak with her but her and Venus are always idols of mine and for me to be the first tennis player is crazy because they are like the best in our sport.
“That’s why I don’t take it for granted and I almost feel like I’m having a little bit of imposter syndrome but I am going to try and take it and be happy for myself.”
Coco Gauff set to make history even Serena Williams didn’t make at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Despite winning four Olympic gold medals throughout her career, Williams never carried the American flag at the opening ceremony.
In Paris, Gauff was selected to carry the flag with LeBron James, and in the process was the first tennis player to have the honour.
The World number two was informed by fellow Team USA member Christopher Eubanks and she was left stunned when presented with the jacket she wore on Friday.
During an appearance on The TODAY Show, the US Open champion commented on what it means to her to be a co-flag bearer: “I was completely shocked. (It) never would’ve crossed my mind. I have no words, honestly,” she said.
“It made me cry. I didn’t want to cry in front of my teammates. I think it’s even more special that so many incredible people — even now I get emotional thinking about it — but so many incredible people just think that I am worthy of this. It means a lot, truly.”
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