In a remarkable career trajectory, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff has not only achieved significant milestones on the court but has also embarked on an entrepreneurial journey. At just 20 years old, Gauff has already claimed the prestigious US Open title and reached the world No. 1 ranking, defeating formidable opponents like Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka. Her recent victory over Swiatek in straight sets brought home America's second United Cup. Off the tennis court, Gauff's success has translated into substantial financial gains, leading her to explore new ventures. Most notably, she has invested a staggering $35 million in Unrivaled, a women's three-on-three basketball league that launched in 2023. This investment underscores her commitment to promoting women's sports.
In the vibrant autumn of her blossoming career, the Georgia-born athlete has taken an unconventional yet inspiring step by investing in the Unrivaled basketball tournament. This league, established in 2023, offers a domestic platform for women basketball players during the off-season. The inaugural season is scheduled to begin on January 17, featuring notable WNBA stars such as Angel Reese and Sabrina Ionescu. Alongside Gauff, other prominent figures from sports and entertainment, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Michael Phelps, Carmelo Anthony, Ashton Kutcher, and Mila Kunis, have also joined as investors, adding a celebrity flair to the league.
Gauff expressed her enthusiasm for supporting women's sports and joining the Unrivaled family. She humorously mentioned her father's wish for her to pursue basketball professionally, noting that this investment is as close as it gets to fulfilling his dream. Despite the excitement surrounding the league, some athletes, like Caitlin Clark from the Indiana Fever, chose not to invest.
From a journalist's perspective, Gauff's venture into basketball signifies a pivotal moment for women's sports. Her investment not only highlights the growing recognition of female athletes but also paves the way for increased opportunities and visibility. Gauff's decision to support Unrivaled demonstrates her leadership and dedication to advancing the status of women in sports, setting a powerful example for future generations.