Delray Beach, Florida – In a heartbreaking moment that stunned the tennis world, Coco Gauff broke her silence with an emotional announcement about her beloved mother, Candi Gauff. The 20-year-old tennis star, visibly shaken, delivered a powerful “three-word” message: “Mom needs prayers.” These words, shared in a trembling voice, carried the weight of a daughter’s pain and the fear of uncertainty.

Coco addressed a small group of reporters outside her family’s home in Delray Beach, where she grew up practicing with her parents. “This is not about tennis anymore,” she said. “This is about family, about love, about the woman who made me who I am.” Her voice cracked as she asked for privacy but also support from the community that has watched her rise.

Candi Gauff, 50, has long been known as the quiet force behind Coco’s success—a devoted mother, former track athlete, and constant source of wisdom. According to close family friends, Candi has recently been battling a serious, undisclosed health condition. Though details remain private, the urgency in Coco’s message made it clear the situation is critical.

“Please, just pray for her,” Coco repeated, holding back tears. The young champion didn’t elaborate further but hinted that her mother’s condition had taken a sudden turn. She also thanked fans for their continued support, adding, “I know she feels the love.”

The Gauff family has always been tight-knit. Candi and her husband Corey, a former college basketball player, dedicated their lives to nurturing Coco’s athletic dreams. Candi, especially, played the role of emotional anchor, traveling with Coco to tournaments and homeschooling her in the early years.

Coco often spoke in past interviews about how her mom gave her balance. “When I felt overwhelmed or defeated, she reminded me why I play,” Coco once said. “She never pushed me—she empowered me.” Today, those words ring even louder as Coco faces her own emotional battle off the court.

Fans across the world have already begun flooding social media with messages of love, hope, and prayers. The hashtag #PrayForCandi has begun trending on Twitter, with fellow tennis players and celebrities expressing their support. Billie Jean King tweeted, “Candi Gauff is a strong, beautiful soul. We stand with you, Coco.”

In an era where athletes often shield their personal lives, Coco’s vulnerable moment has reminded many of the humanity behind fame. Despite her international success and Grand Slam titles, she remains a daughter first. And right now, she’s just a daughter asking for a miracle.

A spokesperson for the family later issued a brief statement, saying, “Candi Gauff is receiving the best medical care available. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers and asks for continued privacy during this time.” No further updates on Candi’s condit

ion have been released.

Locals in Delray Beach have already begun organizing candlelight vigils and prayer circles in honor of Candi. One neighbor, Mrs. Lorraine Simmons, shared, “Candi always had a smile and a kind word. She’s one of the strongest women I know.” The community is clearly rallying behind the Gauffs.

This heartbreaking development comes just weeks after Coco returned from Wimbledon, where she made it to the semifinals. She had been planning to take a brief break to recover and spend time with her family. Now, that break has taken on a deeper, more painful purpose.

Coco ended her statement with one last, emotional appeal: “She gave tennis its soul by giving me life. Now I ask all of you—please, just pray for her.” There wasn’t a dry eye in sight as she walked away, her shoulders heavy with emotion, her strength shining through the tears.

While the world awaits further news, one thing is certain: Coco Gauff is not alone. The tennis community and millions of fans stand behind her and her family. At this moment, more than ever, the game can wait—what matters most is the heart behind the champion.

We send our deepest prayers to Candi Gauff and strength to the entire Gauff family. Let us all pause, reflect, and show the same love and grace that Candi gave to the world—through Coco. May healing come, may love surround, and may hope never fade