Coco Gauff, the rising star of American tennis, made waves at the Olympics when she revealed her decision to stay in the Olympic Village rather than moving to a hotel like many of her fellow athletes.
In a surprising move, Gauff referenced none other than Rafael Nadal to explain her choice. “If Rafa can stay in the village, then why can’t I?” she said, highlighting the Spanish tennis superstar’s decision to bunk in the village alongside other athletes.
While Gauff stood firm in her decision, other American tennis players such as Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Desirae Krawczyk opted for the more comfortable confines of hotel living. It wasn’t just the tennis contingent leaving the village, though – athletes from various sports and national teams also made the switch, citing the village conditions as a major factor.
“I’m the only one really. Like, at first I was going to move, and then when I kept meeting all these amazing athletes staying in the village, and then Rafa is staying in the village. So I was like, if he can do it, I can do it. But I understand why my teammates left,” Gauff explained.
Unfortunately for Gauff, her singles campaign at the Games came to an unexpected end when she was defeated by Donna Vekic in a hard-fought match. Gauff felt particularly aggrieved by a controversial call in the second set that seemed to turn the tide in Vekic’s favor.
Despite the disappointment of her early exit, Gauff’s decision to stay in the Olympic Village and draw inspiration from the likes of Nadal showcases her commitment to the Olympic spirit and camaraderie among athletes.