US Open staff and the special bond with Coco Gauff: Cheers and riddles

Amid the electrifying pace of the 2026 US Open, a heartwarming story about two behind-the-scenes staff members – Ayanna Campbell and Sharif Cobb – is making waves not just for their dedication, but for the unique bond they have built with home favorite Coco Gauff. Ayanna Campbell, a guest services representative at the US Open, has become a familiar face on Practice Court No. 1 at Flushing Meadows. Her job is to lead the crowd in cheering for players during practice. But with Gauff, Campbell goes further: she personally shouts her name, demands roars from the crowd, and creates a charged atmosphere that delights the 22-year-old star. Campbell is not a tennis professional – outside the US Open, she works as a bus matron for special-needs students. But on the practice court, she is the number one 'energy booster'. Gauff once stopped her drill, put a hand on her heart, and directed a thank-you towards Campbell. That moment was captured and went viral with millions of views. On Instagram, Gauff wrote: 'Thank you for always being there and spreading positive energy. You are part of why I love playing here.' The story is even more intriguing with Sharif Cobb, the men's locker room attendant at the US Open. Cobb started offering playful riddles to players during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the tournament atmosphere was gloomy. Gauff quickly became a regular customer of these riddles. She often asks: 'Any riddle today, Mr. Cobb?' and always receives an enthusiastic response. So much so that after winning her third-round match against Cristina Busca, Gauff took time on the main court to thank Cobb by name – an unprecedented moment in US Open history for a locker room attendant. Cobb has worked at the tennis center since 2026, but has never been publicly acknowledged on court by a top-5 player. 'That girl has such a big heart,' Cobb told ESPN. 'I just do my job, but she makes me feel important.' From a technical perspective, this relationship does not directly affect match performance. However, it clearly impacts Gauff's psychology and emotions. A player who feels loved, cheered, and trusted tends to play more confidently. In fact, since winning the 2026 US Open, Gauff has maintained an open demeanor with fans and staff – part of her strategy to build a 'relatable star' image. From an organizational viewpoint, the US Open is investing more in experience staff like Campbell to create memorable moments. As for Cobb, his riddles have become an indispensable mental treat for players. Could other Grand Slams follow suit? Very plausible – a low-cost, high-brand-benefit model. Whatever the outcome of the 2026 US Open for Gauff, the story of Campbell and Cobb will be retold. It proves that tennis is not just about serves and scores – it is about human connection, between stars and the people who work magic behind the scenes. And Coco Gauff, with her open heart, shows she understands that better than anyone.