SEOBLOGREEN - Coco Gauff is more than a tennis star. She is a powerhouse for change. She is also a young philanthropist. At the Australian Open, she revealed her latest action. It was a big one. Gauff committed $250,000 over two years. The money goes to a special cause. It supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs.
This is not just a casual gift. This is a commitment to her roots. Gauff made the announcement after her second-round win. She defeated Olga Danilovic in straight sets. The win was sweet, but the news off the court was even sweeter. Gauff is using her platform for good. She is focusing on a community close to her heart.
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The Deep Family Ties to HBCU Culture
Gauff, still in her early twenties, is a major donor to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). She is one of the youngest to ever make such a large contribution. Her family history drives her. She did not attend a traditional college. She turned professional early. But her connection to HBCUs is strong.
Her family legacy is deep. Both of her grandmothers attended an HBCU. An uncle and an aunt also went to one. The family history goes back even further. Her great-great-grandfather was part of this tradition. "My family has a deep-rooted history with HBCUs," Gauff said. This cultural background shaped her life. She grew up attending HBCU Classic games. This is where the roots of her philanthropy lie. She understands the culture and the need.
The Breakdown of the $250,000 Gift
The total is $250,000. It covers two years of giving. Gauff first donated $100,000 in 2025. That launched the Coco Gauff Scholarship Program. The program supports tennis players at HBCUs. This year, she added $150,000 more. This total contribution is significant. It is already funding ten eligible HBCU students. The money helps them pursue both academic and athletic excellence.
This support is strategic. Gauff aims to target a specific funding gap. She saw a problem in the sport she loves. "I feel like HBCU tennis a lot of times doesn't get the funding that they need," she explained. Collegiate tennis programs at these schools often struggle. They face challenges compared to other athletic departments. Gauff is stepping in to fill that void. She is creating opportunities.
Uplifting Marginalized Communities Through Sport
Gauff's philanthropy extends beyond just tennis. It is about a bigger mission. She wants to uplift marginalized communities. She wants to support them where she can. This is a deliberate choice. She recognizes the power of representation. Seeing people who look like her thrive is important. Thriving in sports and education is the goal.
The scholarship is a confidence boost. It tells young Black players they are supported. They have a community behind them. They have a bright future ahead. "Education has the power to change lives," Gauff stated. Her words are simple and direct. They reflect the spirit of giving.
Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr. is a UNCF executive. He praised Gauff's dedication. Her leadership is an inspiration. It motivates student-athletes. They are pushed to excel on the court. They are also pushed in the classroom. Gauff's donation ensures crucial resources are available. It helps young leaders succeed.
The Australian Open showed her tennis skill. But her actions outside the lines show her character. She is a champion with a conscience. She is winning on the court. She is giving back off the court. That quarter-million-dollar gift echoes louder than any shot. It is a powerful example for all young athletes. Giving back is a crucial part of success.
Source: tennis.com
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