Coco Gauff Admits She Wants Rihanna to Be in Her Player’s Box

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated May 8, 2025 7:17 AM ET

Grand slam champion and American star Coco Gauff has expressed her admiration for global music icon Rihanna. In an exclusive and candid interview with Garbine Muguruza for tennis channel, Gauff spoke about which celebrity would she like to have in her player’s box during all grand slams. Without hesitation Gauff said that Rihanna would be her ideal ‘hype man’ during tough matches.

"Uh, Rihanna—I feel like she has great energy. I haven't met her yet, but I feel like she'd be a good hype man," said Gauff with a laugh. While most of them would be nervous to perform in front of their idols, Gauff said it works the opposite with her.

"You know, honestly, I think I'd play better out there because, like, if someone famous is in the crowd, then I'm like, I can't lose in front of them," she said with a chuckle.

Gauff's admiration for Rihanna extends beyond the tennis court. She has previously expressed interest in Rihanna's entrepreneurial journey, particularly the launch of Fenty Beauty. She has also shown her admiration on not how Rihanna runs her other businesses and has also said in her previous interviews that Beyonce and Rihanna are two music icons she reveres and takes inspiration from.

The 20-year-old tennis sensation has also showcased her fandom through personal moments. During a Thanksgiving celebration, Gauff was seen enjoying a karaoke session with her cousins, passionately singing Rihanna's "Kiss It Better," reflecting her deep connection to the artist's music.

Gauff's enthusiasm for having Rihanna in her corner indicates the influence of strong, successful women in her life and career. As she continues to make her mark in the tennis world, lets hope we get to see Rihanna cheering on Coco someday.

Coco is currently competing at the Rome open and she will face the exciting Canadian Victoria Mboko in her first match.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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