MusaCoco Gauff has no doubts about who holds the title of “most popular player” on the ATP Tour — and it’s not Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Carlos Alcaraz. According to the 20-year-old US Open champion, that honor goes to her friend and fellow American, Frances Tiafoe.
Speaking ahead of her Cincinnati Open campaign, Gauff was asked which men’s player had the biggest presence off the court. She didn’t hesitate.
“Every celebrity knows Frances Tiafoe,” she said with a laugh. “He has the most clout on tour, hands down.”
Gauff and Tiafoe share a warm friendship built over years of representing the United States in team events and supporting each other during major tournaments. Tiafoe’s fun-loving personality, signature style, and high-profile friendships — from NBA stars to Hollywood names — have made him one of the most recognizable faces in tennis, even beyond the sport’s fan base.
“He’s always at these events, always connecting with people,” Gauff added. “I’ll see a picture and be like, ‘How did you even meet that person?’ That’s just him — everyone loves him.”
Tiafoe, who made his first Grand Slam semifinal at the 2022 US Open, has often spoken about wanting to make tennis “cool” and more appealing to a broader audience. His ability to attract attention from outside the sport aligns perfectly with that mission.
While Gauff’s comment was lighthearted, it also reflects the unique role Tiafoe plays among American players — as both a top competitor and a cultural ambassador for tennis. With both stars gearing up for the US Open later this month, fans will be watching to see if their on-court success can match their off-court influence.
John Owolabi
Musa
