American tennis star Coco Gauff has openly confirmed her romantic connection with Atlanta-based musician and aspiring actor Jalen Sera, revealing a private side of her life. This announcement marks a significant step in Gauff’s off-court journey, ending months of speculation about their relationship.
The couple’s relationship, which has lasted two years, was publicly acknowledged during a BOSE promotional video where Gauff reacted emotionally to a heartfelt “I love you” message from Sera, coinciding with their anniversary. This moment offered fans a rare glimpse into her personal life beyond tennis.
Early Connection Between Gauff and Sera Before Stardom
The roots of Gauff and Sera’s relationship trace back well before she gained recognition on the WTA Tour. Jalen Sera, originally from Durham, North Carolina, but raised in Atlanta, once studied under Coco’s mother, Candi Gauff, who is a former track athlete turned teacher. This prior association set the stage for their reconnection years later.
During an April 2024 interview with TIME, Gauff shared details about her mother’s favorable impression of Sera in his youth, describing him as a “smart, nice kid.” Their early acquaintance eventually blossomed into a romantic relationship after they met again as young adults.
My mom always said, if they’re bad in school, they’re probably bad as adults. He’s always been a smart, nice kid,
Gauff revealed.
Though Gauff has historically kept her private life under wraps, she gradually began revealing her relationship, emphasizing its refreshing nature. Dating someone uninvolved in the tennis circuit offered her a new perspective outside the world she inhabits.
This is my first real relationship. To just have someone to talk to who is not involved in tennis at all gives me a fresh perspective,
Gauff said.
The Supportive Role of Jalen Sera During Crucial Matches
Jalen Sera has been a stabilizing presence for Gauff, especially during high-pressure tournaments such as the 2023 US Open final. Gauff recounted that the night before her first Grand Slam title win, she calmed her nerves with a late-night conversation with Sera. Their interaction helped ease her mind and prepare her mentally for the match ahead.
Last night, I started (to get into my own head) a little bit, but honestly, I just called my boyfriend, and I told him let’s talk until it’s time to go to sleep so we spoke until 1:00 a.m. and then I went to sleep,
Coco Gauff said in her press conference at the time.
Beyond emotional support, Sera has been seen joining Gauff and her family at various tournaments, including matches in Miami, demonstrating his consistent presence. Following her Italian Open victory, Sera called her a “warrior” on social media, and recently celebrated her French Open Grand Slam triumph with encouraging posts.
Their growing bond became increasingly visible when Gauff posted photos of them together from Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw festival in November 2024, where fans noticed their strong chemistry.
An Intimate Celebration Captured During a Promotional Event
The clearest public acknowledgment of their relationship surfaced in a playful BOSE promotional video. Gauff participated in a game where she had to identify various familiar sounds, including a soft, loving message from Sera:
Just wanted to say you’re the absolute coolest person ever. I’m so proud of you. You’re doing great and I love you,
the message said.
Gauff’s delighted reaction spoke volumes as she confirmed, “That’s my boyfriend,” and revealed that the day commemorated their two-year anniversary, sharing a tender moment with her audience.
Significance of Gauff’s Relationship Announcement
Coco Gauff’s open confirmation of her relationship with Jalen Sera highlights a fresh dimension of her life beyond tennis. The couple’s longstanding connection, rooted in early personal ties, adds depth to their story amid Gauff’s sporting achievements. This revelation may affect how fans perceive her as she balances her personal and professional worlds.
Moving forward, Gauff’s candidness about her relationship could encourage her to share more personal moments, fostering a closer connection with fans while maintaining her focus on achieving further success in tennis.