As the anticipation builds for the 2026 Australian Open, tennis star Coco Gauff is preparing to compete under a name that often leads to confusion. While Gauff is one of the top contenders, many fans may not realize that she does not use her legal name, Cori Gauff, in competitive settings. This situation has led to some unexpected challenges for the 21-year-old athlete.
Entering the tournament with high expectations, Gauff is riding the momentum from a remarkable 2025 season, during which she secured her second Grand Slam title at the French Open. This victory marked a significant comeback for the American player, who first made headlines by winning the US Open as a teenager in 2023. With each match, Gauff showcases her determination and skill, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite.
Challenges of Identity in Professional Sports
Despite her success, the discrepancy between her legal name and her competitive name often complicates her life off the court. Gauff has shared that this mix-up can lead to awkward situations, particularly during hotel check-ins and airport procedures. “Every time I check into hotels or [with] people at the airport, they look at my ID,” she said, highlighting the confusion that arises when her legal name does not match her widely recognized persona. “Obviously the airport you book under your real name, but the person sometimes will recognize me and they’ll be like, ‘Wait, are you Coco?’ I’m like, ‘Yeah, it’s just a nickname. I’m not somebody that looks like her.’
Such interactions can be frustrating. Gauff explained that when checking into hotels, staff often cannot find her reservation under Cori. “It’s probably under Coco, not Cori,” she noted, emphasizing the need for clarity in her professional life.
The Origin of the Nickname
The origins of her nickname, ‘Coco,’ provide insight into her family dynamics. Gauff has recounted that her name stems from her father’s name, Corey Gauff. She humorously mentioned, “I guess, you know, they didn’t want me to get my dad and me confused when my mum is like yelling at one of us in the house.” The story behind ‘Coco’ has two versions: her aunt claims she coined the name, while her father believes it was inspired by the nickname ‘Co’ from his youth. “I don’t know which story is actually true, but they both get pretty bad if I don’t say both of them. I just say that,” Gauff remarked, capturing the playful nature of her family’s narrative.
As she prepares for the Australian Open, Gauff’s focus remains on her performance and building on her recent successes. While the name confusion may pose challenges, her talent and determination are undeniable. With the world watching, Coco Gauff is poised to make an impact on the court once again.
