Coco Gauff may be the world’s No. 3-seeded women’s tennis player, but she’s also a grounded, stylish, pop culture-savvy 21-year-old girl. When I flew to Melbourne for the Australian Open with New Balance, the superstar athlete was gushing over Heated Rivalry in press conferences and dancing to Aminé’s hits in the VIP section of his concert. (@Hudson Williams and @Connor Storrie, you need to arrange a meet-and-greet with this icon, ASAP.)

Of course, once Coco steps onto the court in her fabulous New Balance custom kit for the tournament, it’s all business. She’s fully locked in and ready to throw off her opponents with those powerful backhands and high-velocity serves. The tennis star made a valiant run in the AO 2026, reaching the quarterfinals before a disappointing loss to Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina.

“I remind myself that I have a high ceiling to grow and the opportunity to improve every year,” she told Betches. “Of course, it’s a blessing to be in the position I’m in at this age, but my main goal is to maintain my success and have a great career.” In our exclusive email interview during the first week of the Open, Coco also opened up about her pre-match routines, her close friendships on tour, fashion, and more.

Coco Gauff On Pre-Match Rituals, Favorite Fashion Moments & Her New Balance Partnership

Betches: How do you hype yourself up before a match? Any rituals?

Coco: I like to listen to music and visualize myself having a successful match to get in the best headspace possible.

Betches: How often do you listen to “Thought I Was Dead” by Tyler the Creator? Be honest.

Coco: It’s in the pre match playlist, so it’s in the rotation pretty often in season.

Betches: Who are some of the players you’re closest with on tour and what do you like to do when you’re not playing tennis?

Coco: I like to go to concerts, spend time with my friends and family, self-care, shopping, and giving back to my community. A couple of people I’m close to on tour are Jess Pegula, Chris Eubanks, and Ben Shelton.

Betches: Which half of Nicolandria would you rather have as a doubles partner and why?

Coco: I would want to play with Olandria because I’ve wanted to meet her.

Betches: Tell me about your on-court style. You have created a custom New Balance kit for the AO, why is self-expression important to you and how does it impact your confidence on the Court?

Coco: I love bringing my own unique style to the court. Working with New Balance on special kits for each tournament has been amazing. I’m so excited to debut my kit for the AO. This is the first time that fans can buy a version of my kit, which I am really looking forward to.

Betches: Why does the New Balance partnership feel so right to you?

Coco: New Balance has truly been like a family to me. This partnership has been long-lasting, and they have always supported me. I’m grateful for our relationship and all the amazing things we’ve been able to do together at every tournament. Having multiple signature shoes is something I don’t take for granted, and I’m excited for everything ahead.

Betches: Favorite outfit you’ve ever worn (on-court)?

Coco: They’re all special to me and unique in different ways. I loved my AO look last year since it was Marvel-inspired. I can’t wait to debut this year’s kit and see what everyone thinks.

Betches: You’ve talked about wanting to be seen as more than a tennis player… How would you like people to see you/describe you?

Coco: I love so much outside of tennis, like fashion, music, my community, and my family and friends. I like to be seen as a cultural trendsetter, a leader, and just an authentic person. Of course, I want to be remembered for my success on the court, but also for everything I do off it.

Betches: Any mottos or manifestations for 2026?

Coco: My motto for 2026 is: My moment will happen right when it’s supposed to.