Coco Gauff Turns 21 Amid Fourth-Round Loss at Indian Wells

Indian Wells, California – Rising tennis star Coco Gauff marked her 21st birthday on March 13, a day after her unexpected fourth-round elimination at the BNP Paribas Open, where she lost to Belinda Bencic.

Despite the disappointing defeat, Gauff embraced the milestone birthday with a sense of joy and reflection. “I think it’s an exciting age to turn,” she stated as she celebrated another year of life and accomplishments.

Following her exit from the tournament, Gauff took a break from competition to enjoy heartfelt birthday wishes from friends, family, and fans. Among the messages, one stood out: her rumored boyfriend, Jalen Sera, shared a warm message on social media, saying, “Happy birthdayyyy @cocogauff Big 21! I hope it’s your best one yet.”

Gauff reciprocated the love by posting a collection of photos on Instagram, including cherished childhood pictures. “Thank you, everyone, for all of the sweet messages. I am so blessed and grateful to see another year! Cheers to 21,” she wrote, embodying her gratitude as she entered this new chapter.

Her mother, Candi Gauff, also celebrated the occasion with a heartfelt tribute on social media, sharing a collage of baby photos and reminiscing about the transformative moment of Coco’s birth. “You made me a mom!! One of the biggest blessings and honors a woman can have,” she wrote. “From the time you were born, I knew you were destined for greatness!”

Candi continued to express her pride in Coco, calling her a global change-maker and insisting, “I love you! Happy birthday!” The loving sentiments brought Coco to a lighthearted realization that she noticed a lack of smiling baby pictures of herself.