Coco Gauff Shares What She Thought of Frances Tiafoe After the First Time They Met

When two of America’s brightest tennis stars first crossed paths, sparks of camaraderie flew instantly—at least according to Coco Gauff. The reigning US Open champion recently opened up about her first meeting with Frances Tiafoe, offering a refreshingly candid take that proves their friendship is as authentic off the court as their talent is on it.

Gauff recalled the encounter with a laugh, saying she was initially struck by Tiafoe’s energy—and yes, that means exactly what you think it does. “Frances is loud,” she admitted, “but in the best way possible. He has this presence that just makes you feel comfortable right away.” For a then-teenage Gauff, meeting someone already making waves in the men’s game could have been intimidating. Instead, she found a mentor figure with a knack for cracking jokes and instantly putting her at ease.

Tiafoe, known for his outgoing personality and trademark smile, has long been celebrated as one of the sport’s most engaging characters. For Gauff, that first impression went beyond the humor—she noticed his genuine interest in encouraging younger players and making them feel like they belong. “It’s not fake with him,” she explained. “He really cares about people, and you can feel that the first time you meet him.”

That mutual respect has since blossomed into a supportive friendship, with both players often cheering each other on from afar. Gauff says Tiafoe’s authenticity and relentless positivity left a mark on her early in her career, reminding her that success doesn’t mean sacrificing personality.

Their connection highlights something rare in elite tennis: a sense of community among American players who genuinely root for one another. In an era where individual achievement can overshadow camaraderie, Gauff’s recollection of her first meeting with Tiafoe is a reminder that chemistry off the court can be just as powerful as competition on it.

Looking back, it’s easy to see why the encounter stuck with her. Tiafoe’s charisma has helped make him one of the most beloved figures in tennis, while Gauff’s meteoric rise has solidified her as the future of American tennis. And while their careers continue to soar on separate tracks, that first meeting seems to have set the tone for a friendship built on mutual admiration, humor, and shared love for the game.

As Gauff puts it, “Frances was just… Frances. And that’s what makes him unforgettable.”