During a pivotal changeover at the 2023 US Open, rising tennis star Coco Gauff caught viewers’ attention—not with her game plan, but with her snack of choice: a refreshing fruit salad. Her clear love for fruit took center stage again in June when she was humorously given the title of “Chief Smoothie Officer” by Naked Smoothies, a brand with over three decades of expertise in fruit and vegetable nutrition. It was a natural fit, especially since the brand offers flavors she enjoys like mango, pineapple, and grapes—all in ready-to-drink bottles.
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The partnership is more than just a title. It’s sparking creative and entertaining content for fans, the latest of which playfully celebrates some often-overlooked heroes in tennis—the ball boys. Known for their quick reflexes and vital role in keeping matches flowing smoothly, these young athletes are essential to the sport. But what happens when you add a twist—like a “smoothie boy”?
In a lighthearted new ad released on April 9th, Gauff is seen seated in a director’s chair next to a podium filled with smoothie bottles. She remarks, “I was recently named Naked’s Chief Smoothie Officer. But I didn’t know the position came with a…smoothie boy?”
Enter Cliff Schutt, the so-called “smoothie boy,” who embraces his quirky role with enthusiasm. He stated, “To do what I love and do it for Naked Smoothies and Coco Gauff? That’s what I call a win-win-win.”
The ad highlights funny moments—like Cliff rushing across the court to hand Coco her smoothie or standing ready at her side during a match, mimicking the role of a traditional ball boy. At first unsure about the new addition, Gauff eventually warmed up to it, admitting, “It took a little while getting used to. But it’s really grown on me.” The reel ends with Gauff confidently reaching for her smoothie, smiling at the speedy delivery.
This isn’t the first time Gauff has showcased her playful side in partnership with Naked. In a February Instagram video, she joked about her new role while blending smoothies courtside and even offered one to the chair umpire, who flatly declined. She finished with a cheeky grin, saying, “It’s better now.” Naked Smoothies followed up the clip with the humorous line: “Who has time for blending these days?”
When asked why she chose to team up with the smoothie brand, Gauff explained that she often starts her day with a smoothie instead of a full breakfast, particularly on match days. Her morning routine varies depending on the schedule, but one thing stays consistent—she’s not much of a breakfast person. That’s where smoothies come in handy, giving her a quick and healthy way to fuel up.
She added that fruit salads have been her go-to snack for years, especially during changeovers, making the collaboration with Naked Smoothies a natural and authentic choice. The smoothies are made with real fruit juice, vegetables, and vitamins, aligning perfectly with her lifestyle.
The CEO of Naked Smoothies praised Gauff for being a multifaceted figure—athlete, advocate, family member, and now Chief Smoothie Officer—saying she truly embodies what it means to balance many roles.
Now, as Gauff prepares for her upcoming tournament in Stuttgart, fans are left wondering: can this fruity energy boost help her secure another victory?