Stepping Up: How Coco Gauff is Redefining Sneakers and Style in Sports

Coco Gauff: From Grand Slam Champion to Sneaker Icon, Melding Athleticism with High-End Fashion

Coco Gauff is making waves in the sneaker world, both on and off the tennis court. Known for her mesmerizing skills and powerful serves, the young Grand Slam champion has also emerged as a style icon with her impeccable sneaker choices. As she ramps up for the Miami Open, Gauff’s sneaker game has hit new heights, showcasing her diverse collection and passion for footwear that transcends the sports arena.

On March 17, Gauff was spotted at a baseball game in Florida flaunting her exclusive New Balance sneakers, exemplifying her status as a true sneakerhead. The 18-year-old athlete is not just focused on her upcoming match; she's enjoying all aspects of the sporting scene. While Gauff is gearing up to take on the competition at the Miami Open, she also managed to snag box seats for the 2026 World Baseball Classic Championship game. It's all part of her busy schedule, which contrasts her competitive spirit with her love for stylish and unique sneakers.

For the baseball game, Gauff opted for her New Balance Coco CG2s—her second signature shoe—in a chic pairing with a white tank top and a stunning cropped sweatshirt from Miu Miu. The high-end design featured a checkered pattern that harmonized seamlessly with her earthy-toned brick red utility pants. Gauff knows how to hit the right notes in fashion, and her choice of sneakers was no exception; she slipped on a pair from New Balance’s recent collaboration with Italian luxury label Loro Piana. These sneakers, characterized by their rich, understated aesthetic, added a touch of sophistication to her ensemble.

The New Balance x Loro Piana sneakers are not just your average athletic shoes; they are steeped in luxury, combining the iconic design of the brand with Italian craftsmanship. With a price tag of $1,500, they are considerably more expensive than the regular releases, which typically retail for around $200. Crafted using premium materials, the sneakers feature chunky soles, beige mesh uppers, and sophisticated monogramming. Gauff’s footwear choice reflects her evolved sneaker game, as she embraces both performance and luxury in her daily wear.

Gauff’s affinity for unique sneakers doesn’t stop with New Balance. The young athlete is always on the lookout for the latest trends in luxury footwear. In fact, if she were to explore new options, the recently unveiled Asics sneaker designed in collaboration with Thom Browne could be a worthy addition to her collection. Priced at $450, these shoes would fit perfectly into her style repertoire without breaking the bank from her recent tournament winnings. Gauff's enthusiasm for sneakers reflects a broader trend among younger celebrities who are increasingly becoming sneaker aficionados.

As Gauff continues to rise in the tennis world, her fashion choices also garner attention, making her not just a player on the court but also a role model off it. With a rich endorsement history with New Balance that has flourished over the past six years, she embodies the intersection of athletics and high fashion. Each public appearance is a showcase—not just of her incredible skills, but also of the powerful message that self-expression can be achieved through style. She is redefining what it means to be both an athlete and a trendsetter, influencing peers and fans alike.

Coco Gauff's journey showcases how the worlds of sports and fashion can beautifully intertwine. Her ability to seamlessly blend her love for tennis with her passion for style underscores the potential for young athletes to become multifaceted icons. As she continues to draw attention to both her performances on the court and her enviable sneaker collection, it’s clear that the future is bright for Gauff. With her confidence, talent, and fashion-forward mindset, she’s soon to become a leading voice not only in sports but in the style arena too—a true ambassador of the sneaker culture.