Rafael Nadal’s bold Coco Gauff prediction from 2022 has already come true
The Spaniard foresaw Gauff becoming a multi-Grand Slam champion — and she has delivered early Rafael Nadal has long been regarded as one of tennis’ greatest competitors, and even after stepping away from the sport in 2024, his influence continues to be felt. Beyond his achievements on court, Nadal has consistently shown a strong interest in the next generation, particularly through his academy and his public support for emerging talents.
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images The Spaniard foresaw Gauff becoming a multi-Grand Slam champion — and she has delivered early Rafael Nadal has long been regarded as one of tennis’ greatest competitors, and even after stepping away from the sport in 2024, his influence continues to be felt. Beyond his achievements on court, Nadal has consistently shown a strong interest in the next generation, particularly through his academy and his public support for emerging talents. Back in 2022, one of those talents stood out to him more than most — Coco Gauff.
What Rafael Nadal said about Coco Gauff at Wimbledon Photo by Tim Clayton/Getty Images Speaking during Wimbledon in 2022, shortly after winning Roland Garros and following Gauff’s defeat in the French Open final, Nadal spoke highly of the young American. “I like her the way that she talks to the crowd, to the press at the end of the matches. She’s fresh.
She’s natural. Looks very mature in her thoughts,” he said. He also highlighted her mentality on court, drawing parallels with his own competitive style.
“Yeah, I think she is a fighter. I like the way that she plays. She fights for every ball.