Coco Gauff Crowned 'Fruit Princess' in China, Eyeing World No. 1

In September 2025, rising tennis star Coco Gauff made headlines during her arrival in Beijing for the China Open, where she was bestowed the title of "Fruit Princess" by local media. Gauff, the defending champion of the tournament, greeted the whimsical nickname with good humor, though she hinted that she would "rather be the fruit queen."

The 21-year-old American's reception in China suggests that local audiences have embraced her with a blend of admiration and warmth. While the "Fruit Princess" moniker is a lighthearted gesture, Gauff's focus remains on her serious ambitions. She acknowledged that her form has wavered somewhat since winning her second Grand Slam at Roland Garros earlier this year, and she is now prioritizing refinement over immediate results.

Gauff's former coach, Serena Williams, has named her as a future World No. 1 player, but with one caveat: Gauff must change one aspect of her game. The young tennis star is aware of this and is using the China Open as part of a larger journey, treating the competition as an opportunity to invest in her long-term trajectory.

As Gauff navigates the demands of the season, she is also finding value in the cultural experiences of her trip to Beijing, visiting landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. This balance between her playful persona and her steadfast professionalism underscores Gauff's dual identity as a global icon and an ambitious athlete with her sights set on the top of the sport.