9 MINUTES AGO: Apple billionaire Tim Cook suddenly announced a $15 million contract with young tennis player Coco Gauff, officially becoming the global ambassador for the new iPhone 17 Pro Max.
In a surprise announcement that sent both the sports and tech worlds into a frenzy, Apple CEO Tim Cook officially confirmed a $15 million endorsement deal with 21-year-old tennis star Coco Gauff. The partnership marks Gauff’s debut as the global face of Apple’s latest flagship product, the iPhone 17 Pro Max — a collaboration that merges the world of elite athletics with cutting-edge technology.
The press release, issued early this morning from Apple Park in Cupertino, described Gauff as “a symbol of energy, creativity, and resilience — qualities that perfectly embody Apple’s vision for the future.” Cook added that Gauff’s rise to global fame, her authenticity, and her ability to connect with millions of fans make her the ideal ambassador for Apple’s next-generation product.
Coco Gauff, who captured the world’s attention after her remarkable run to the US Open title, appeared alongside Tim Cook during the announcement. Dressed elegantly yet effortlessly in a minimalistic white outfit — a subtle nod to Apple’s signature style — Gauff’s presence was as magnetic as ever. When asked about her reaction to the partnership, she smiled and delivered a simple yet heartfelt statement that
melted the crowd: “I’m just grateful to inspire through what I love.” Those eight words, now trending across social media, reportedly prompted Tim Cook to make an unexpected decision: to personally oversee Apple’s future sports ambassador projects, starting with Gauff’s campaign.
The deal is one of the largest single-brand endorsements in women’s tennis history, placing Gauff among an elite group of athletes with global corporate influence. Insiders suggest that Apple’s campaign featuring Gauff will go beyond traditional advertising — focusing
instead on the intersection of innovation, youth empowerment, and performance excellence. Early teasers hint at a short film showcasing Gauff’s journey from her first racket to her latest triumphs, using the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s cinematic capabilities to capture every emotion.
The timing of this announcement is particularly significant. With the 2025 tennis season approaching its final stretch, Gauff’s name continues to dominate headlines both on and off the court. Her recent success at major tournaments and her growing activism for youth and digital responsibility have made her one of the most admired young figures in global sports culture.
Tim Cook, who is known for carefully selecting Apple’s brand representatives, has rarely shown such visible enthusiasm. According to sources within the company, he personally initiated contact with Gauff’s team following her breakthrough 2024 season, convinced that she represents “the perfect embodiment of Apple’s human-centered innovation.”
The partnership also reflects Apple’s broader strategy to deepen its connection with Gen Z consumers. By aligning with Gauff — a young athlete celebrated not just for her victories but for her humility and values — Apple aims to reinforce its image as a brand that champions authenticity over mere celebrity.
As the applause faded at Apple Park, the symbolism was unmistakable: a new generation of both technology and inspiration had just been born. And at the center of it all stood Coco Gauff — smiling, grounded, and ready to represent more than a brand, but a movement.
