Coco Gauff, the 2024 WTA Tour Finals champion, is currently competing in the 2025 United Cup in Sydney, where she has teamed up with Taylor Fritz to represent the United States. Despite being far from home, Gauff remains connected to significant events back in her country. Recently, she took a moment to honor former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 in hospice care in Georgia. Carter, who was the oldest living U.S. president before his death, left behind a legacy of humility and service. His passing has deeply saddened the nation, including notable figures like Gauff.
Sharing a heartfelt story on her Instagram, Gauff recounted an unexpected encounter with Carter during her childhood. She revealed that during a road trip, her family stopped at a McDonald’s in rural Georgia. There, her father had a chance meeting with Carter in the restroom. Initially, the family thought the armed individuals around were due to the local culture, but they soon realized these were Secret Service agents accompanying the former president. Gauff described Carter as extremely kind and emphasized how the experience left a lasting impression on her. She ended her tribute by expressing her admiration and wishing him peace in his passing.
In addition to Gauff, other tennis legends such as Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King, and Boris Becker paid tribute to Carter. Navratilova shared a brief but meaningful tweet, praising Carter as a “truly good man” who lived an incredible life. Billie Jean King highlighted Carter’s achievements as a former Naval officer, Nobel Peace Prize recipient, and humanitarian. Her sentiments were echoed by Boris Becker, who shared King’s tribute with his own message of agreement.
Gauff’s reflection, alongside those of these tennis icons, underscores Carter’s impact on people from all walks of life. His legacy of peace, democracy, and humility continues to resonate, leaving behind an irreplaceable mark on history. Even as Gauff focuses on her tennis career, she demonstrated how deeply she values such moments and figures in her life.
Meanwhile, Gauff is off to a strong start in the 2025 United Cup, showcasing her partnership with Fritz and hinting at a promising season ahead. Though physically distant, she remains emotionally connected to her homeland and its cultural milestones.