Coco Gauff is making waves both on and off the tennis court as she celebrates her 21st birthday with a significant milestone: the launch of her new shoe, the Coco Delray, in collaboration with New Balance. This release is not just a product; it’s a heartfelt homage to her roots, community, and the unwavering support of her family, particularly her grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom.
The campaign for the Coco Delray features Odom narrating a touching video that takes viewers on a journey to Delray Beach, Florida, where Gauff first honed her tennis skills at the public courts of Pompey Park. This location is more than just a backdrop; it’s where her dreams began to take shape, fueled by the encouragement of her community. By including her grandmother’s voice in the campaign, Gauff recognizes and honors the vital role Odom played in her life, sharing her gratitude on Instagram Stories.
In a press release, Evan Zeder, New Balance’s head of tennis sports marketing, highlighted the brand’s mission to make tennis more accessible. “It means a lot to Coco that anyone who wants to play tennis should be able to pick up a racquet and play,” he stated. Gauff echoed this sentiment, expressing her pride in launching the Coco Delray, saying it represents an opportunity to broaden access to the sport and positively impact future generations.
The timing of the launch, coinciding with her 21st birthday, adds an extra layer of significance. Gauff shared, “Delray Beach helped spark my tennis journey, so it’s special to me to tell the story of this community that influenced exactly why I love this sport.” The visually striking campaign, crafted in collaboration with creative powerhouse Joe Freshgoods, captures the essence of Gauff’s journey—a young girl with dreams, supported by a loving family and a community that rallied behind her.
The Coco Delray shoe stands out as a unique addition to Gauff’s growing line with New Balance, following the successful Coco CG1 and CG2 models. Unlike its predecessors, which were geared towards elite athletes, the Coco Delray is priced at $110, making it more accessible to players of all levels and backgrounds.
As of March 13, the Coco Delray is available globally through New Balance and select retailers, with additional colorways set to be released throughout the year. Through this collaboration, Coco Gauff not only celebrates her personal achievements but also strives to inspire the next generation of tennis players, ensuring that the sport remains inclusive and welcoming for all.
