Coco Gauff has largely kept her personal life private, but her relationship with Jalen Sera returned to public attention during the 2026 US Open. Observers noted shifts in the couple’s social media activity, prompting widespread speculation about a possible breakup. Neither Gauff nor Sera has issued an official statement confirming a split.
Relationship Timeline: From Private Start to Public Reveal
Gauff and Sera began dating in June 2023. For much of their early relationship, Gauff declined to identify her partner publicly, only mentioning that he was from Atlanta and did not play tennis professionally. In a 2024 interview with TIME, she explained the significance of dating someone outside her sport.
“This is my first real relationship,” she said. “To just have someone to talk to who is not involved in tennis at all gives me a fresh perspective.”
An unusual family connection also emerged: Gauff’s mother, Candi, revealed she had taught Sera in fourth grade and remembered him as a “smart, nice kid.”
The couple remained out of the spotlight for two years. In June 2025, Gauff confirmed the relationship in a Bose promotional video, sharing an anniversary audio message from Sera and posting a photo of them together on social media. Sera has been described as a key support figure for Gauff, particularly after difficult losses, helping her maintain a positive outlook.
Breakup Rumors Surface in August 2026
Speculation intensified in August 2026 when fans noticed Gauff had removed photos of Sera from her Instagram account. She also shared TikTok posts addressing relationships, including one about finding happiness with or without a partner.
On August 16, Sera posted a photo dump on Instagram with a caption that fueled further conjecture.
No stringssssss.
Despite the social media signals, no direct confirmation of a breakup has come from either party.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on September 9, 2026, in the Tennis section.