Coco Gauff gave fans a rare look into her private life this holiday season, and it quickly became one of her most relatable posts of the year. The tennis champion shared a simple photo on social media that showed Polaroid-style snapshots spread across a marble table, along with a short caption saying this has been her favorite Christmas since she was a kid, even though Christmas has not arrived yet.
The image was not flashy or staged. It showed real moments with friends and family, many of them taken at what looks like a holiday gathering. People are smiling, wearing festive outfits, and standing close together. There are Santa hats, holiday lights, and the kind of casual group photos you only take when you feel comfortable with the people around you. In the corner of the image is a stack of art and fashion books, adding to the lived-in, at-home feel of the scene.
© Coco GauffThis one photo said a lot about where Coco is in her life right now.
A Big Year Made Better by Small Moments
Coco Gauff has had a major year in tennis. She has been competing nonstop, traveling across the world, and dealing with the pressure that comes with being one of the most talked-about young athletes in sports. That kind of schedule does not leave much room for normal life.
© NurPhoto via Getty ImagesSo when she says this is her favorite Christmas since she was a kid, it stands out. It suggests that this holiday season gave her something she does not always get during the rest of the year. Time with people who matter.
Most celebrities share their lives through polished social media posts. Coco went in the opposite direction by posting Polaroids, which feel more personal and less edited. Polaroids are physical photos that you can hold, write on, and keep. They are usually taken in the moment, not carefully planned.
A Look at Coco Outside of Tennis
Fans are used to seeing Coco Gauff on the court, focused and competitive. This post showed her differently. It showed her as a young person enjoying time with people she cares about.
There is no mention of tennis in the post. No trophies. No stadiums. Just people, laughter, and memories. That contrast is part of what made the post stand out. It reminded fans that even someone at the top of their sport still values simple things like being home for the holidays.
Why This Christmas Feels Special
Coco did not explain exactly why this Christmas means so much to her, but the photo gives some clues. It looks like she spent quality time with a group of close friends and family in a relaxed setting. That kind of experience can feel especially meaningful after a long, busy year.
The 21-year-old is also celebrating her first Christmas as a homeowner. The world No. 3 bought a plush, custom-built home in Delray Beach, Florida. She took to social media to share a look at her festive décor while enjoying some well-earned downtime following the end of her 2025 tennis season.
© Coco GauffThe tennis superstar transformed her property into a chic winter wonderland, displaying multiple Christmas trees placed throughout the home. The main tree in her living room embodies a classic holiday aesthetic, adorned with twinkling lights, red ribbon, and a variety of ornaments. A yellow star crowns the top, and a red tree skirt completes the display at the base.
Coco Gauff's favorite Christmas post shows that even at the height of success, what matters most is still people.
