Coco Gauff accepted the Style Influencer of the Year Award at the 2025 Footwear News Achievement Awards on Wednesday in New York City, recognizing the significant role that fashion plays in her life.
Storm Reid, a previous recipient of the same honor, was on hand to present her friend with the award. She spoke of how they first connected as they are both part of the New Balance family, but their commonalities extend beyond that.
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The actress said of Gauff, “She not only gives powerful performances on the court, she also has fearless style. Coco is chic, she is elegant and she takes risks, all while remaining fully herself — a value that we both share as a part of the NB New Balance family. We may have met because of New Balance, but we bonded over our passions for our respective crafts.”
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Reid continued, “We both love what we do while remembering what it took to get us here. Yes, Coco is influencing a generation of young women and athletes with her impeccable style. And also because she doesn’t give up and she always gives back. To Coco, paying it forward to community is always in style. And she consistently uses her influence for good. I’m proud to stand up here with Coco and congratulate her on her momentous reward.”
In her acceptance speech, Gauff spoke to how her identity extends beyond the world of tennis.
“Being a female athlete often means being told to stay in our lane, to focus on the sport and nothing else,” she said on stage. “But as I’ve grown in this sport, I realized that while it’s my passion, it isn’t my entire identity.”
The two-time Grand Slam winner continued, “Fashion has become a way for me to express who I am beyond the court. Through what I wear, I get to show a side of myself that isn’t defined by a box, a rule or an expectation. I love fashion because it gives you full permission to be creative and unapologetically yourself.”
She concluded her speech, “So thank you to the Footwear News for recognizing me with this honor, and I hope female athletes everywhere continue to embrace their authentic selves, no matter how others try to categorize them. Thank you.”
Gauff was also on hand later in the evening to present New Balance and Miu Miu with the Collaboration of the Year Award. She worked with the brands on a tennis-inspired collection which dropped in September.
For 39 years, the annual FN Achievement Awards — often called the “Shoe Oscars” — have celebrated the style stars, best brand stories, ardent philanthropists, emerging talents and industry veterans. The 2025 event is supported by Caleres, Listrak, Nordstrom, Skechers, Vibram and Wolverine Worldwide.