Coco Gauff, the US tennis star and Wimbledon semi-finalist, has revealed her love for London's Tube, her favourite dining spots, and a surprising ambition to swim in the Thames. In an interview with The Standard, Gauff shared her experiences of the city ahead of this year's Championships.
Home and Accommodation
Gauff described home as being about people rather than a place: "Home for me is wherever my family are." She stays in the Battersea area during her visits, noting, "I love it because it’s next to the river, so I have a view, and it’s really calm and chill."
Favourite Spots and Activities
For a first date, Gauff recommended Battersea Park but added, "I think that’s a question for my date." She relies on Selfridges and the New Balance store on Oxford Street for shopping, as well as the Miu Miu store on Bond Street. Her most memorable meal was at Dishoom with her parents: "I love Indian food and sharing that with them was amazing."
Gauff's fun activities include riding the Tube: "You can probably catch me riding the Tube by myself 24/7." She also enjoys exploring neighbourhoods and finding foodie spots, often with her family.
Mayoral Ambitions
If she were Mayor for the day, Gauff would seek full access to Buckingham Palace, inspired by watching The Crown. She also expressed a wish to make the Thames swimmable: "Every time I walk past it, I want to jump in, but it’s probably best I don’t."
Work and Style
Gauff is excited to debut her next New Balance x Miu Miu kit at Wimbledon, saying, "I love being able to bring my own style and personality to the court." She collects stuffed animals and has about 30 at home. Her beauty spot is The Nailist in Shepherd's Bush for manicures.
Inspirations and Secrets
Gauff considers her mom, dad, and grandmother as heroes, and Serena Williams as a professional hero. Her London secret is Seven Dials Market, which has "everything you could possibly want."
