Coco Gauff, the American tennis sensation, has opened up about her favorite spots and experiences in London, from riding the Tube alone to dining at Dishoom with her parents. She also expressed a whimsical desire to make the River Thames swimmable if she were Mayor for a day.
Home and Neighborhood
For Gauff, home is more about people than a place. “Home for me is wherever my family are,” she said. When in London, she stays in the Battersea area, drawn by its riverside views and calm atmosphere. “I love it because it’s next to the river, so I have a view, and it’s really calm and chill,” she explained.
Dining and Shopping
One of her most memorable meals in London was at Dishoom, the popular Indian restaurant chain. “I love Indian food and sharing that with them was amazing. There are so many options on the menu and the portion sizes are perfect,” she recalled. For shopping, Gauff frequents Selfridges, the New Balance store on Oxford Street, and the Miu Miu store on Bond Street. “They always have great stuff,” she noted.
Fun and Exploration
Gauff enjoys riding the London Tube, often by herself. “You can probably catch me riding the Tube by myself 24/7,” she said. She also loves exploring different neighborhoods and finding great food spots. “London has such an amazing mix of cultures. One of my favourite ways to unwind is having a good meal with family or friends,” she added.
Mayoral Ambitions
If she were Mayor for a day, Gauff would seek full access to Buckingham Palace. “I watch The Crown and would love the chance to go inside, although I’m not sure if the Mayor has that much power...” she mused. She also dreams of making the Thames swimmable. “Every time I walk past it, I want to jump in, but it’s probably best I don’t,” she said.
Work and Wimbledon
Gauff is excited to debut her next New Balance x Miu Miu kit at Wimbledon this week. “There is so much history and tradition at the tournament and I love being able to bring my own style and personality to the court,” she stated. She also praised Serena Williams as her professional hero. “She’s an inspiration on and off the court and has pushed the boundaries and shown what is possible in our sport,” Gauff said.
Personal Touches
Gauff collects stuffed animals, with about 30 in her house and more at her parents'. Her favorite beauty spot is The Nailist in Shepherd’s Bush, where she gets her nails done for Wimbledon. For headspace, she goes anywhere by the river. “I love to sit out and look at the water,” she said. When asked about strawberries and cream versus fish and chips, she chose strawberries and cream.
