Martina Navratilova has commended Coco Gauff for her outspoken role in addressing social issues, particularly focusing on Coco Gauff Black Lives Matter activism and impact. When the Black Lives Matter movement gained momentum following George Floyd’s murder in 2020, Gauff was just 16 years old but immediately became involved, sharing impactful messages against police brutality and urging people to stand against racism.

Beyond social media, Gauff actively participated in a Black Lives Matter rally in her hometown of Delray Beach, Florida, where she delivered an emotional speech emphasizing the importance of using one’s voice to fight racial injustice. Gauff also expressed her personal motivation, saying she was

“fighting for the future of her brothers”

and her future kids.

Martina Navratilova’s Admiration for Gauff’s Political Engagement

Martina Navratilova, known for her own political engagement, praised Coco Gauff during an interview with BBC Radio. Navratilova highlighted Gauff’s maturity and the strong values instilled by her parents, noting that these qualities reflect in both her tennis and activism.

“I smile so much when I see the reach she already has now, and she will have in the future. She is just so poised on and off the court, she was brought up with great qualities and it shows how she plays and it shows how she’s active now politically. She’s one of those people that can change the world for the better, and she seems to want to do that,” Navratilova said.

Navratilova also connected Gauff’s activism to a broader tradition of tennis players championing social causes.

“Sport has always been at the forefront of social change. And now it can be that again with Black Lives Matter and just equality for all. Tennis has had its share of obstacles, but I think overall, we’ve been at the forefront of social change and it seems like now with Coco Gauff, leading the charge, we’re still there,” she added.

Influence of Family: Yvonne Odom’s Role in Gauff’s Advocacy

At the 2023 US Open press conference, Coco Gauff revealed how her grandmother, Yvonne Odom, significantly shaped her dedication to using her platform for social justice. Odom was a pioneer as the first Black student to integrate Seacrest High School, enduring racism with grace and teaching Gauff the importance of speaking out on critical issues like Black Lives Matter and gun violence.

“Yeah, I think she’s probably ‘the’ sole or one of the main reasons why I use my platform the way that I do and why I feel so comfortable speaking out,” Gauff said.

Aside from being a symbol of resilience, Yvonne Odom has been deeply supportive of her granddaughter’s tennis career, celebrating Gauff’s milestones, including her victory at the 2025 French Open, with great pride.

Coco Gauff’s Lasting Impact Through Sports and Activism

Coco Gauff’s combination of athletic success and passionate social engagement has earned her respect from tennis legends such as Martina Navratilova and Billie Jean King, who appreciated Gauff’s message against gun violence at the 2022 French Open. Gauff stands as a contemporary figure continuing tennis’s legacy of supporting social progress.

As she advances in both her career and advocacy, Gauff exemplifies how athletes can leverage their influence to promote equality and justice. Her activism, informed by personal history and family strength, promises a long-lasting impact on and off the court, inspiring future generations to raise their voices for change.