Coco Gauff chuckled at the criticism she faced after labeling American tennis fans as the “worst” when it comes to supporting players abroad.
During a press conference for the United Cup on Friday, the 21-year-old stirred some discussions by mentioning that she didn’t expect many Americans to be cheering for her in Perth, the tournament’s location.
Acknowledging the backlash, Gauff took to social media to elaborate, expressing her appreciation for the support she does receive.
“LOL. There’s some misunderstanding here, let me clarify,” Gauff tweeted on Sunday. “I’m not saying we expect fans to travel to watch us. But at many tournaments—both stateside and overseas—there are Americans competing, and it sometimes feels like they don’t root for their own players as intensely as fans from smaller nations do. Those fans, often decked out in their national colors, show clear support.”
“I was really just sharing my observations. I totally get the economic factors at play and recognize that tennis isn’t accessible to everyone. It’s worth noting that I hope American fans can match the enthusiasm of those from other countries, especially in team events. I’m not asking for anything, just expressing a perspective based on what I’ve seen.” Gauff added that she appreciates all support, both big and small.
Ranked No. 4 in the world, Gauff had a word before her loss to No. 42 Jessica Buzas Maneiro in a singles match at the United Cup on Monday.
Her initial remarks were made during Team USA’s press conference as they geared up for a Group A matchup. When asked if she thought a significant number of Americans were rallying behind top-seeded Team USA in the United Cup, she simply replied, “Honestly, no.”
“I feel like we definitely have it tough in terms of fan support in tennis, and when I see smaller countries getting support, I just wish our fans would show up more enthusiastically in various international venues,” she noted.
“…But if I could make it to Sydney for the finals, I’d really want to see more Americans than showed up last year,” Gauff added, acknowledging that it might be “difficult” for U.S. fans to attend since the country excels in so many sports.
Taylor Fritz, another American pro, strongly defended Gauff, stating that her statement wasn’t meant to offend American fans in any way. “People often twist things in a negative light,” he tweeted in response to Gauff’s remarks. “I was right there with her, and I completely understand what she meant. There’s no disrespect in her words.”
He added, “If we were up against the Czech Republic or Poland at the United Cup, the fans would go wild for them. We truly value every American who comes out to support us, even if other countries have a more intense sports culture.”
On Monday, Gauff and her partner Christian Harrison triumphed in a mixed doubles match against the Spanish team, advancing the United States to the quarterfinals of the United Cup in Perth.
Coco Gauff responds to backlash regarding her comments on American tennis supporters.
Coco Gauff chuckled at the criticism she faced after labeling American tennis fans as the “worst” when it comes to supporting players abroad.
During a press conference for the United Cup on Friday, the 21-year-old stirred some discussions by mentioning that she didn’t expect many Americans to be cheering for her in Perth, the tournament’s location.
Acknowledging the backlash, Gauff took to social media to elaborate, expressing her appreciation for the support she does receive.
“LOL. There’s some misunderstanding here, let me clarify,” Gauff tweeted on Sunday. “I’m not saying we expect fans to travel to watch us. But at many tournaments—both stateside and overseas—there are Americans competing, and it sometimes feels like they don’t root for their own players as intensely as fans from smaller nations do. Those fans, often decked out in their national colors, show clear support.”
“I was really just sharing my observations. I totally get the economic factors at play and recognize that tennis isn’t accessible to everyone. It’s worth noting that I hope American fans can match the enthusiasm of those from other countries, especially in team events. I’m not asking for anything, just expressing a perspective based on what I’ve seen.” Gauff added that she appreciates all support, both big and small.
Ranked No. 4 in the world, Gauff had a word before her loss to No. 42 Jessica Buzas Maneiro in a singles match at the United Cup on Monday.
Her initial remarks were made during Team USA’s press conference as they geared up for a Group A matchup. When asked if she thought a significant number of Americans were rallying behind top-seeded Team USA in the United Cup, she simply replied, “Honestly, no.”
“I feel like we definitely have it tough in terms of fan support in tennis, and when I see smaller countries getting support, I just wish our fans would show up more enthusiastically in various international venues,” she noted.
“…But if I could make it to Sydney for the finals, I’d really want to see more Americans than showed up last year,” Gauff added, acknowledging that it might be “difficult” for U.S. fans to attend since the country excels in so many sports.
Taylor Fritz, another American pro, strongly defended Gauff, stating that her statement wasn’t meant to offend American fans in any way. “People often twist things in a negative light,” he tweeted in response to Gauff’s remarks. “I was right there with her, and I completely understand what she meant. There’s no disrespect in her words.”
He added, “If we were up against the Czech Republic or Poland at the United Cup, the fans would go wild for them. We truly value every American who comes out to support us, even if other countries have a more intense sports culture.”
On Monday, Gauff and her partner Christian Harrison triumphed in a mixed doubles match against the Spanish team, advancing the United States to the quarterfinals of the United Cup in Perth.
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