Retired Australian tennis player Nicole Pratt has lavished praise on Coco Gauff for her eloquence during WTA's 50th-anniversary celebrations in September.
Gauff, one of the only recognizable members from the current roster who attended that night, was given the stage to deliver a speech. The 19-year-old kept her composure and displayed maturity beyond her years, as Pratt said during an episode of the AO Show podcast.
Gauff appreciated the blueprint laid out by her predecessors, including WTA trailblazer Billie Jean King and seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams, who have used their voice to ensure women are respected and rewarded just like male players.
The young American sensation also mentioned her childhood idol, Serena Williams, who set the pathway for her to realize her dream. Reflecting on Gauff's speech, Pratt was left in awe and opined that the Atlanta native is shaping to be a great role model for young women.
"Prior to the tournament [US Open], Coco Gauff was in the ballroom and it was a celebration. It was a celebration of 50 years of the WTA tour. And she was the only top player that was there, that was present, that had taken the time to acknowledge, you know, where the tour has come from to where it is today. She spoke so eloquently, mature beyond her years."
"It was a moment for me where I go, you know what, whatever success that comes to you, you absolutely deserve it. If you end up being one of the best women tennis players in the world, I cannot think of a better spokesperson, an idol for, you know, women and girls to look up to."
It was a momentous occasion for Gauff, who is fast developing into one of the most charismatic players on tour. Gauff has also portrayed dignity towards her fellow players and is massively respected despite being light years away from achieving veteran status.
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