By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Wednesday February 6, 2025
Coco Gauff is using her prize money to do good in the world. The American had delivered a $100,000 donation to provide scholarships for historically Black college and university (HBCU) students playing competitive tennis.
“We are incredibly grateful to Coco Gauff for her generous $100,000 gift to UNCF, which will significantly impact the lives of HBCU students aspiring to excel in competitive tennis,” said Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr., executive vice president and chief development officer, UNCF. “Her commitment not only showcases her dedication to education and athletics but also inspires the next generation of student-athletes to pursue their dreams. This gift reinforces the importance of supporting our young leaders and ensuring they have the resources necessary to succeed both on and off the court.”
The Coco Gauff Scholarship Program will be administered by UNCF and scholarships will be awarded to eligible students who play competitive tennis starting in May. Details will be forthcoming on UNCF.org/scholarships.
Coco 👏🏾Gauff 👏🏾 One of the youngest major gift donors in UNCF’s history!
@CocoGauff continues to make history on the court & off the court! Her $100,000 donation to UNCF will impact the lives of HBCU students aspiring to excel in competitive tennis. Thank you, Coco! #BHM pic.twitter.com/OBFXc7Bs0a
— UNCF (@UNCF) February 4, 2025
“My family has a deep-rooted history with HBCUs, going all the way back to my great, great grandfather,” Gauff said in a statement. “From aunts and uncles to cousins, HBCUs have played a huge role in shaping who we are. Supporting UNCF in creating opportunities for student-athletes in tennis means a lot to me.
“As a young Black athlete, I understand how impactful it is to see people who look like me thriving in both sports and education. I want to help the next generation of student-athletes continue pursuing their passion for tennis while reaching their academic goals. My hope is that this scholarship gives more young Black players the confidence to chase their dreams, knowing they have a strong community behind them and a bright future ahead.”
Gauff has supported other causes in 2025. Earlier this year, Gauff joined the investment group for the new women’s basketball 3-on-3 league Unrivaled in January.
“My dad always wanted me to follow in his footsteps and play basketball. Haha sorry dad but this is as close as it will get,” Gauff wrote on X when the news broke. “In all seriousness, I’m incredibly my grateful to get the opportunity to uplift women’s sports and I am super excited to join the @Unrivaledwbb family! I can’t wait to watch.”
According to Forbes, Gauff Gauff recorded the third-highest earning season ever for a female athlete. Her estimated $34.4 is outpaced only by Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams.
