While the tennis calendar has slowed down, Coco Gauff’s momentum off the court shows no signs of fading. The American star added another notable achievement to her growing résumé after being recognized at the WTA’s year-end awards, ensuring her name remains firmly in the spotlight despite the offseason lull.
Coco Gauff earns major WTA recognition
More year-end WTA awards were announced on Friday, adding to the first batch revealed earlier in the week. While world number one Aryna Sabalenka claimed Player of the Year and Katerina Siniakova teamed with Taylor Townsend to secure Best Doubles Team honors, several high-profile players initially missed out—including world number three Coco Gauff.
That changed with the announcement of the Jerry Diamond ACES Award, an honor that carries significant prestige within women’s tennis. Gauff was named the recipient of the award, which was previously won by Sabalenka at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
According to the WTA website, Coco Gauff earned the accolade for “her work and dedication to promote women’s tennis to fans, media and local communities.” The award, introduced in 1995 in memory of former WTA CEO Jerry Diamond, recognizes players who go beyond results on the court to elevate the sport’s global presence.
Joining elite company during the offseason
With this honor, Gauff joins an accomplished list of past recipients that includes Angelique Kerber, Elina Svitolina, and Sabalenka. Being grouped alongside those names further underlines her growing influence within the sport, particularly at just 21 years old.
The recognition comes during a period when many players have stepped away from competition, making Gauff’s offseason headline even more noteworthy. While she did not take home an award in the initial announcements—where Amanda Anisimova was voted Most Improved and 19-year-old Victoria Mboko captured Newcomer of the Year—this distinction reinforces Coco Gauff’s standing as one of the WTA’s most impactful figures.
A reminder of Gauff’s broader impact
Although Gauff’s 2025 season included deep runs and consistent performances at the top level, the Jerry Diamond ACES Award highlights a different aspect of her career. It reflects her role as a global ambassador for women’s tennis, something that continues to resonate with fans and the tennis community alike.
Elsewhere in the awards, Jessica Pegula claimed the Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Award, while Anisimova’s mentor, Hendrik Vleeshouwers, was named Coach of the Year.
Even without match play, Coco Gauff’s latest recognition ensures her presence remains prominent—proof that her influence extends well beyond the baseline.