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Coco Gauff was laser-focused during her practice session at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Aug.24, as she prepared to defend her US Open title. The 20-year-old tennis prodigy, whose career has been marked by her dynamic play and fearless presence on the court, turned heads not just with her performance, but also with her fresh, stylish footwear. Gauff stepped onto the court wearing the new Coco CG2 sneakers, a collaboration with New Balance that has been eagerly anticipated by fans and sneakerheads alike.
Released on Aug. 21, just in time for the US Open, the CG2 in the “Power and Grace” colorway represents a significant evolution from the CG1s that made waves last year. While the CG1s were inspired by basketball silhouettes with a high profile, the CG2s draw design cues from New Balance’s classic 550s. The shoe’s aesthetic blends retro elements with modern functionality, resulting in a sneaker that’s as stylish as it is performance-driven.
What makes the CG2 particularly special is Gauff’s personal touch. The CG1 featured designs close to Gauff’s heart, like her dad’s famous phrase, “You can change the world with your racket,” and the coordinates of her childhood courts. The CG2, however, takes a more refined approach, offering a cleaner, Coco-inspired design. One standout detail is the tongue label, where Gauff replaced the traditional basketball emblem seen on the 550s with a tennis ball, adding a playful nod to her sport.
On the court, Gauff’s black tank top and patterned skirt perfectly complemented the sleek design of the CG2s, making a statement both in terms of fashion and athletic prowess. As she gears up for what promises to be a thrilling US Open, Gauff’s new collaboration with New Balance reflects her growth not only as a formidable player but also as a rising style icon in the sports world. With her “Power and Grace” CG2 sneakers, Gauff continues to cement her influence on and off the court.
