Rising tennis star Coco Gauff is not letting the potential ban of TikTok in the U.S. distract her as she progresses in the 2025 Australian Open.
The 19-year-old, who boasts a massive following on the popular platform, recently shared her thoughts on the subject, displaying a mix of humor and practicality.
During a post-match press conference following her 6-3, 7-5 victory over Jodie Burrage, Gauff was asked about the ongoing speculation regarding TikTok’s future in the U.S.
With her characteristic candor, she dismissed the rumors, saying, “Yeah, I am following it. This is the third or fourth time this has happened, so I’ve kind of like, this time just was like, ‘whatever.’ If I wake up and it doesn’t work, fine. I’m done wasting my time.”
Gauff has been a frequent and engaging user of TikTok, captivating her 755,000+ followers with relatable and entertaining content.
Despite her attachment to the app, she maintains a grounded perspective on the matter, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. She also pointed out the emergence of other platforms like “Red Note,” a Chinese app gaining traction as a TikTok alternative.
“I hope TikTok extends. It’s a great thing for a lot of small businesses in our country and creators to spread stories,” Gauff added, reflecting her awareness of the app’s broader impact.
Her lighthearted approach was evident when she joked about what she’d miss most if TikTok were to disappear: a famous pig named Merlin.
“There’s a lot of trends. There’s like this pig online, his name is Merlin. And he knows how to press buttons so he can talk. It’s a pretty sassy pig, so I will miss Merlin the most,” she said with a laugh.
Eyeing Australian Open Glory
While the TikTok debate swirls, Gauff remains laser-focused on her quest for success at the Australian Open.
After a dominant 2024 season, which saw her clinch titles at the China Open and the WTA Finals, Gauff is aiming to add another major trophy to her collection.
Under the guidance of coach Matt Daly, her game has reached new heights, making her a formidable contender for the championship.
Beyond tennis, Gauff is also gearing up to support her friend Bailey Taylor Brown, a contestant on The Bachelor. Despite having never watched the show before, Gauff is excited to tune in for Bailey’s journey.
“I’m sat! Never watched the show before but will be!!!!” she wrote on Instagram.
Coco Gauff‘s ability to balance her growing stardom, personal interests, and professional aspirations sets her apart as one of the most dynamic figures in tennis today.
Whether she’s smashing serves or staying unfazed by digital trends, Gauff continues to inspire with her poise and resilience. As she marches through the Australian Open, all eyes are on the young star to see how far she’ll go – both on and off the court.
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