Coco Gauff Celebrates 21st Birthday with Heartfelt Tributes from Sports Icons

Tennis sensation Coco Gauff turned 21 this week, and the sports world showed up in full force to celebrate the milestone. From heartfelt messages to words of encouragement, Gauff was showered with love and admiration from fellow athletes, including LSU basketball star Flau’jae Johnson, Olympic skiing legends Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin, and many more.

Gauff, who captured global attention with her fearless performances on the court at a young age, has continued to evolve into not only a formidable athlete but also a respected role model. Her birthday sparked a flood of tributes on social media, with fans and celebrities alike celebrating her accomplishments and maturity.

Flau’jae Johnson, known for her dual talent as a rising basketball star and rapper, posted a video message calling Gauff “an inspiration to young Black girls everywhere” and praised her “poise, power, and presence.”

Lindsey Vonn, the retired Olympic gold medalist skier, tweeted, “Happy 21st to the incredible Coco Gauff. Your strength, grace, and determination are changing the game. Here’s to many more victories—on and off the court.”

Fellow skier and Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin also joined the chorus of well-wishers. “Watching you grow over the years has been a joy,” she wrote on Instagram. “Your passion is contagious and your humility is admirable. Cheers to 21 and beyond!”

Athletes from across sports disciplines chimed in, applauding Gauff not just for her achievements in tennis, including her 2023 US Open title, but for her voice on social justice and mental health advocacy.

Coco responded with gratitude on her own social platforms, writing, “Feeling so much love today. Thank you to everyone who made this birthday special. I’m blessed to have such incredible people in my corner.”

As Gauff steps into a new chapter of adulthood, it’s clear that she continues to inspire fans and fellow athletes alike—not just with her tennis prowess, but with her authenticity, leadership, and heart.