Coco Gauff, aka ‘The Fruit Salad Queen,’ wants a new nickname from her China Open fans

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BEIJING (AP) — Defending champion Coco Gauff is loving her interaction with fans at the China Open but wouldn't mind a new nickname — something ferocious if possible.

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BEIJING (AP) — Defending champion Coco Gauff is loving her interaction with fans at the China Open but wouldn’t mind a new nickname — something ferocious if possible.

French Open champion Gauff started her title defense in Beijing with a 6-4, 6-0 win over Kamilla Rakhimova on Friday and will next face Leylah Fernandez in the WTA 1000-series tournament.

Gauff has received a number of gifts this week and has been affectionally given two nicknames by the Chinese fans: “Fruit Salad Queen,” a reference to her signature fruit salad, which she often snacks on for an energy boost.

Coco Gauff of United States returns a shot from Kamilla Rakhimova in the women's singles match of the China Open tennis tournament held in Beijing, China, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)
Coco Gauff of United States returns a shot from Kamilla Rakhimova in the women's singles match of the China Open tennis tournament held in Beijing, China, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

The other is “Ambassador of Beijing” because of her frequent praise of the Chinese capital and its attractions.

The 21-year-old American said she approves of both, but wouldn’t mind one inspired by an animal which reflects her tenacity on court.

“I guess I have a challenge for the Chinese fans,” Gauff said in comments on the WTA Tour’s website. “I would like to know what animal resonates with me. I mean, fruit salad is cool, but I think being named after an animal is cooler. I would like to see what animal they think I am.”

And she’s loving those gifts.

“The Chinese fans are great,” she said. “I have literally so many gifts, more gifts than I’ve gotten on Christmas in my entire life. I purposely packed light because last year I packed full and it was a struggle to get everything back. I do keep all of them. A lot of the stuffed animals are a decoration in my house.

“Yeah, I think they’re the best, most creative fans. I love coming here. I came prepared and brought an extra bag.”

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AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis

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