Coco Gauff praises Venus Williams magazine cover as the American tennis icon receives widespread admiration for her recent feature. Venus Williams, 45, was showcased in a captivating photoshoot by Ricardo Abrahao for L’OFFICIEL Italia, which caught the attention of both fans and fellow players in early 2025. The tennis legend shared the image on Instagram, highlighting her elegant ivory suit, bold accessories, and distinctive hairstyle.
Andrea Preti, Williams’ boyfriend who has become openly close with the tennis star over the past year, expressed his appreciation on social media:
“Those hair ❤️” — Andrea Preti
Adding to the celebration, Coco Gauff, the rising American star and 2025 French Open champion, reacted with three heart-eyes emojis, showing her support and admiration for Venus’s radiant appearance in the shoot.
Details of Venus Williams and Andrea Preti’s Relationship
Venus Williams and Andrea Preti’s relationship has developed visibly since their first appearance together in July 2024, when they were spotted boating along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Their bond quickly deepened, with multiple public outings and vacations, including trips to the Bahamas where Venus described Preti as the best company. The couple confirmed their relationship publicly in February 2025 with a kiss at Milan Fashion Week, marking an important milestone in her personal life.
Coco Gauff Reflects on Influences During 2025 French Open Interview
During the 2025 French Open, Coco Gauff won her second-round match against Tereza Valentova and joined the Tennis Channel for a post-match interview. She was joined in the studio by fellow Americans Venus Williams and Sloane Stephens, creating a memorable moment of connection among tennis generations.
“You and Serena are the reason I started this sport, and being here is surreal. I didn’t know you were going to be at the desk. I’m really happy to be here. I’m having a little moment here, so I’m trying to get the words out … I never thought when I picked up a racket that I would be here, sitting with out, having this conversation,” Coco Gauff said.
Venus Williams responded by acknowledging her and Stephens’ role in inspiring young athletes worldwide:
“I’m so glad you’re here, because of you and Sloane, there are so many young girls who are picking up rackets, and that’s so important.”
This exchange underscored the continuing legacy Williams carries as a mentor and role model within the sport.
Gauff’s French Open Victory Caps a Remarkable Clay Season
A few days after the interview, Coco Gauff claimed the 2025 French Open title with a victory over Aryna Sabalenka in the final. This win completed an outstanding clay-court season for Gauff, who also secured two runner-up finishes at Masters 1000 tournaments, solidifying her status as a rising champion in tennis.
The public admiration between Gauff and Williams and their shared recognition of tennis’s evolving landscape highlights the sport’s multigenerational impact. Venus Williams continues to inspire as she balances her personal life and enduring influence, while Gauff’s achievements signal a promising future.