Coco Gauff wrote a letter to herself as a 17-year-old when her dream of playing at the Olympics was shattered three years ago.
Back in 2021, the Tokyo Olympics were held even though the Olympic Games were supposed to be held in 2020. What happened? COVID-19 impacted the whole world, and obviously, all athletes, which is why the Games were pushed forward one year; it was peak chaos back when they were supposed to happen.
Once the world figured everything out, the Olympics could be held. However, it was COVID-19 that smashed Gauff's dreams of playing at the Olympics because the American tested positive for the virus just as she was about to fly to Japan.
That was devastating news for the American who missed those Olympics, which makes these upcoming Games her first ones. It's poetic in a way because she loves Paris; it's her favorite city, so having her first Games held there will make it a good memory.
The letter Gauff wrote recently to her 17-year-old self provides personal insight into the devastation of missing the Olympics, as it was a very emotional moment for her.
"Dear 17-year-old Coco, Your eyes don’t deceive you - that’s a positive COVID-19 test. The next one you take will be positive too, as will the third. It’s official – you have COVID, and it’s ruining all your big plans."
"You have your bags packed, a plane ticket purchased and a coveted spot at the greatest athletic event in the world, the Olympic Games. Now that lifelong dream of becoming an Olympian will be delayed and you’re devastated."
It was an emotional letter, but this time around, things are much more positive. Gauff will not only play at the Olympic Games but also carry the flag for her nation.
That's another huge honor for the youngster, but she's obviously looking forward most to play. There is a bit of legacy there because she hopes to achieve what Serena Williams was able to achieve, and we know that she won gold medals at the Games.
"While tennis is an individual sport, you relish the relationships with your teammates. You’ve been lucky enough that your on-court relationships have turned into off-court friendships. One of those notable friendships is with your idol, Serena Williams."
"Serena was once just a stranger printed on a poster hanging in your room, and now you still can’t believe she’s a friend and mentor. Her profound impact on tennis, what it means to be a champion and to break barriers is a legacy you hope to uphold and carry with you into your first Olympic Games."
The 20-year-old is one of the players who will be favored to challenge for the medal at the Olympic Games, albeit she will not be the top favorite because Iga Swiatek has been incredibly dominant at Roland Garros.
Still, just being there is already a huge win for her, and she'll enjoy it, but obviously, there is a job to do.