Pressure is nothing new to Cori “Coco” Gauff — having been pitted against some of the greats, she rose to prominence after beating one of her idols, Venus Williams at just 15 years old, becoming the youngest player to win a WTA title since 2004.
HYPEBEAST caught up with tennis’ rising star to discuss her love for pasta, her active partnership as Barilla’s brand ambassador and how her patience and determination translates effortlessly into the kitchen.
WHAT DOES Tennis MEAN TO YOU?
Coco Gauff: Tennis means hard work, determination, and sacrifice. It has given me so much; I get to travel around the world and experience things that many people my age don’t get to. I’m also grateful that I get to have my family with me on this journey.
YOU’RE A YOUNG STAR; HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOURSELF WHEN PLAYING AGAINST THE greats?
I make sure I stick to my game plan. My dad has instilled confidence in me from the day I started playing tennis when I was 8. I have trust in both my training and preparation, and always believe in myself and know that I can win.
YOU’RE ALSO A BUDDING Chef. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT COOKING? WHAT HAS IT taught YOU?
Once you’re done you get to enjoy / eat the thing you created. Cooking has taught me to think creatively and that it’s ok to experiment in the kitchen. I must say I’m a true beginner in the kitchen, but I’m quite an independent person so it’s nice to know I can prepare a few key dishes.
HOW DOES THE PACE OF COOKING COMPARE TO TENNIS? WHAT BENEFITS DOES BEING ABLE TO relax IN THE KITCHEN HAVE?
In some ways I think they can be very similar. You need the focus and patience to see through the whole recipe you’re making, one mistake can cost you. If you’re relaxed, you’re able to have more fun with it and have the confidence to add your own twist on dishes.
WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY IN the life of Coco?
I get up, go to practice, come home, do schoolwork and go back to practice. Of course, there is always eating, relaxing, and hanging with family and friends in between.
WHAT’S YOUR favorite pasta DISH? HOW DO YOU LIKE TO MAKE IT?
My favorite dish is Carbonara. Always make sure to add pasta water to make it creamy and never actually use cream [laughs]. I also love Pesto, especially when I’m in Italy — the basilico is just different.
