PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED’S 30-under-30
The Tennis Phenom: COCO GAUFF
Boynton Beach–based Cori “Coco” Gauff, 18, has athletics in her blood: Her father played basketball at Georgia State University and her mother ran track and field at Florida State University. However, Gauff’s loyalties have been tied to tennis since she was just 6 years old. Over the past decade, Gauff—who plays professional tennis on the Women’s Tennis Association Tour—has carved a decorated career in the sport, excelling to become the youngest player ranked in the top 100 by the Women’s Tennis Association. At age 15, she beat out Venus Williams (one of Gauff’s personal inspirations) in the opening match of Wimbledon 2019. At age 17, she was selected to compete in the 2020 Olympics, but devastatingly, a positive COVID-19 test five days before Tokyo’s opening ceremonies forced her to withdraw. PBI caught up with Gauff for insight on what’s up—and what’s next.
5 QUESTIONS WITH COCO
When did you fall in love with tennis?
I fell in love with tennis when I first picked up a racket.
What keeps you passionate about the sport?
I love competing, winning, and trying to be the best version of myself each day. I want to inspire others to dream big in whatever they may be doing. No dream is too big.
How has living in South Florida impacted your tennis career?
I moved from Atlanta to Delray when I was 7 years old since there were more training opportunities in Florida. My parents are both from Delray, so my family has a big support system here. Without that support, I don’t think it would have been as easy for me to pursue tennis professionally.
How are you preparing for the 2024 Olympics?
I just want to stay consistent and continue to get better. I can’t wait to hopefully represent team USA in Paris 2024 and play for a chance to bring home a medal for my country.
What’s something about you that not many people know?
I love anime!
The YouTubers: JESS AND GABRIEL CONTE
Like many modern love stories, Jess and Gabriel Conte’s started with a DM. In early 2016, Jess visited Los Angeles—it was the native Australian’s first trip to America. She had noticed Gabriel posting Bible verses on Instagram, so she messaged him to ask what church he went to. Originally from Pompano Beach, he was living in LA after leaving Florida State University to pursue his social media career. They met up, hit it off, and committed to a long-distance relationship. But they soon felt called to get engaged and married—all within the same year. “We started filming videos together on our own channels, but right before we got engaged, we started our channel together,” Gabriel says. With an openness that remains the defining feature of their channel today, they vlogged their whirlwind relationship—their instant connection, swift marriage, and Jess’ move halfway
