Coco Gauff is reportedly in a relationship with Jalen Sera, an actor and musician whose creative background complements Coco’s high-intensity tennis world. While neither has publicly confirmed the relationship, their subtle social media interactions since early 2024 have fueled the speculation. Jalen’s reposts of Coco’s red carpet appearances and his “Warrior” reaction to her marathon Italian Open win hint at a quiet, supportive bond.
Coco first mentioned having a boyfriend in 2024, calling it her “first real relationship” and explaining that he wasn’t involved in tennis. Jalen, who works in Atlanta’s creative scene as a guitarist and actor, fits the profile of someone outside the sports bubble who brings balance to her life. Their connection feels grounded, rooted in shared encouragement rather than publicity.
Separating Fact from Rumor: Ben Shelton Isn’t Her Boyfriend
Coco Gauff is not dating fellow American tennis star Ben Shelton, despite fan speculation. Their friendship and occasionally friendly chemistry on court have sparked rumors, but there is no romantic connection between them. They remain professional peers who support each other’s growth on the tour.
Ben is carving his own path in tennis with a powerful serve and charismatic style, but their lives intersect only through the sport. Coco’s hints about her boyfriend point clearly toward Jalen Sera, not Ben, making this rumor one of many that arise from social media chatter. Both athletes seem focused on their careers, leaving little room for unnecessary distractions.
Why Coco’s Tennis Achievements Still Take Center Stage
Even with interest in her personal life, Coco Gauff shines brightest because of her achievements on the court. She captured the 2023 US Open title at just 19, becoming the youngest champion since Serena Williams and announcing her arrival as one of tennis’s biggest stars. By 21, she had collected nine WTA titles and climbed to world No. 2 as of May 2025.
Her rise began early, winning the Junior Roland-Garros title at 14 and steadily building momentum through resilience and hard-earned victories. Her run to the Italian Open final in 2025, including a grueling 3.5-hour semifinal, showed the grit that defines her game. Even her viral moments—like forgetting her rackets before a French Open match—make her relatable and beloved by fans.
Who Is Jalen Sera? The Man Behind the Rumors
Jalen Sera, Coco’s rumored boyfriend, is a multi-talented artist known for acting and guitar work in Atlanta’s creative community. He has kept a low public profile, but his subtle support for Coco has not gone unnoticed. Their connection reflects Coco’s preference for someone outside the tennis world, someone who offers emotional grounding rather than added pressure.
Coco once shared that her boyfriend helps her stay calm during stressful moments, including before her 2023 US Open match. These glimpses show how their relationship supports her mental balance without overshadowing her career. Jalen’s presence adds warmth to her story, complementing her competitive spirit with steady encouragement.
Coco and Jessica Pegula: A Changing Doubles Dynamic
Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula are no longer regular doubles partners in 2025, though their friendship remains strong. They reached great heights together, including a run to the 2022 French Open final, but Coco recently paired with Alexandra Eala for the Italian Open. This shift reflects her effort to explore new strategies while managing her demanding singles schedule.
Their decision to play separately hasn’t changed the admiration they share on tour. Coco and Jessica continue to support each other publicly and remain two of the most influential American players in tennis today. Fans still hope for future reunions, but Coco’s evolution as both a singles and doubles competitor remains her priority.
Coco Gauff’s Influence Beyond Tennis
Coco Gauff is far more than a sports star—she’s a global role model whose voice matters just as much as her gameplay. Being named to Time’s Women of the Year list in 2024 affirmed her impact on issues like equality, representation, and empowerment. Her sportsmanship, seen when consoling young opponent Victoria Mboko at the Italian Open, demonstrates maturity beyond her years.
Her 1.8 million Instagram followers see both her athletic professionalism and her personal authenticity. Whether she’s dancing with family, joking about forgetting her rackets, or speaking on social justice, Coco shows what modern leadership looks like. She embodies the power of visibility for young Black girls dreaming of their own path in sports.
Balancing Love, Tennis, and Personal Growth
Balancing a relationship with a high-pressure tennis career is no small feat, but Coco manages it with grace. She has mentioned late-night calls with Jalen before big matches, sharing how those moments help center her. These glimpses reveal how important emotional balance is to her success on the court.
Jalen’s support remains subtle and respectful, never overshadowing Coco’s achievements. Their dynamic reflects a healthy balance—he encourages from behind the scenes, while she stays focused on training, touring, and maintaining her competitive edge. Their relationship adds depth to Coco’s story without becoming its central focus.
Coco Gauff’s 2025 Season Highlights
The 2025 season has already tested Coco’s resilience and sparked excitement among her fans. Her French Open journey began with a strong win over Olivia Gadecki despite the unforgettable moment of arriving without her rackets. She continued with a tough second-round match against Tereza Valentova, proving her ability to stay composed even on shaky serving days.
Her Italian Open run showcased her fighting spirit as she pushed through long matches to reach the final. Though she fell short to Jasmine Paolini, her performance underlined her status as a title contender. With clay season behind her, Coco now sets her sights on a deeper push at Roland-Garros.
Representation Matters—and Coco Knows It
Coco’s presence as a young Black woman at the top of tennis carries powerful meaning. She builds on the legacy of players like Serena Williams while forging a path uniquely her own. Her success communicates that excellence in tennis is not limited by race or background.
Her authenticity resonates with audiences who see her as someone relatable yet extraordinary. From heartfelt speeches to candid personal moments, Coco uses her platform to uplift, inspire, and encourage dreams. Her leadership extends well beyond the court.
What’s Next for Coco and Jalen?
As Coco pushes for another deep run at the French Open, Jalen continues supporting her from afar with encouragement that speaks louder than public declarations. Their romance, though quiet, adds a meaningful chapter to her incredible journey. Fans enjoy seeing the connection without expecting fully publicized details.
Coco remains focused on collecting more titles, growing her impact, and writing one of tennis’s most compelling modern stories. With her boyfriend’s support, her family’s love, and her own determination, she’s poised to build a legacy that will inspire generations.