Cori Gauff is proof that you can make history at any age

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Published In Features
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Wimbledon 2019 is finally here, with the tournament world-renowned for royal appearances, tennis whites, the very best Pimms… oh and world class sport of course.

Come rain or shine (and we’re seriously hoping for the latter) the sporting event is not one to be missed, with this year rumoured to be Andy Murray’s last.

But it wasn’t Andy Murray that got people talking this morning, instead it was 15-year-old US player Cori Gauff, World number 313.

Cori made history yesterday at Wimbledon, as she became the youngest player since 1991 to win in the first round of the ladies’ singles, beating Venus Williams 6-4, 6-4.

Getty Images
(Image credit: Visionhaus)

Just as a reminder - Venus Williams is a five-time Wimbledon champ, winning four Grand Slam titles before Cori was even born.

‘It's the first time I have ever cried after winning a match,’ Cori explained after the match. ‘I don't know how to explain how I feel.’

Getty Images
(Image credit: Visionhaus)

‘Venus told me congratulations and keep going, she said good luck and I told her thanks for everything she did,’ Cori explained of her idol. ‘I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her. I told her she was so inspiring and I've always wanted to tell her that but I've never had the guts to before.’

‘I never thought this would happen. I’m literally living my dream right now.’

Jenny Proudfoot
Jenny Proudfoot
Contributing Features Editor

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. After working at Marie Claire UK for seven years - rising from intern to Features Editor - she is now a freelance contributor to the News and Features section.

In 2021, Jenny was named as a winner on the PPA's '30 under 30' list, and was also listed as a rising star in journalism.