Gauff discovers new voice as she stands up for change

After a five-month drought due to the ongoing pandemic, the WTA tour is returning to the United States this week in Lexington, and Coco Gauff is  eager to compete.

"I really like the site here," the 16-year-old says."The indoor facility is phenomenal, same with the outdoor facility, but I practiced indoors today and the courts are really nice. The staff and the people have been really nice. So I'm excited to play this tournament."

Serena and Venus Williams, Victoria Azarenka, Sloane Stephens, Amanda Anisimova and more top names will also be competing in the inaugural Top Seed Open. Gauff, currently ranked No. 53, is relishing the opportunity to battle against the world's best again.

"This tournament is definitely going to be the closest you can get to probably a Grand Slam draw," Gauff says. "I think this is going to be really good preparation for the US Open."

Besides celebrating her 16th birthday and spending quality time with family jet skiing and going out on their family boat, she's also been rallying for change and equality. After George Floyd's death, Gauff marched, stirred up awareness online and spoke at a peaceful protest in Delray Beach.

"Speaking out is important, I think that my generation realized that," she says. "I think there is a common misconception that you have to be older to have opinions on certain issues. If the issue affects you, then I believe you should be able to speak about it."

The American may just be 16 but she believes many Gen Z's are not afraid to speak about the Black Lives Matter movement and other systemic issues.

During this month last year, the "Call me Coco," catchphrase was born in New York, when Gauff made a run to the third round. Her first name is technically Cori.

While she doesn't have a new catchphrase this time around, she is going with the flow and adapting to the new normal, just like everyone else. She's entered into both the Western & Southern Open and US Open, which will all be held in Flushing Meadows.

Gauff will be ready to embrace whatever protocols and bubble guidelines that are placed ahead of her.

"I'm willing to do whatever it takes so we can get back on the court again," Gauff said. "Lexington and the tournament itself has been doing a great job with the safety precautions."