Coco Gauff has clarified – and slightly softened – her recent criticism of American tennis crowds, insisting her comments were never meant as an attack on fans, but rather an honest observation drawn from her experience competing overseas.
The 21-year-old American star found herself at the center of debate during the United Cup, where she initially spoke candidly about the lack of visible U.S. fan support at international tournaments. While the remarks sparked backlash online, Gauff quickly took to social media to explain her perspective in greater detail.
Coco Gauff explains her comments on U.S. fan support
Ahead of her singles match against Spain’s Jéssica Bouzas Maneiro, Gauff addressed the controversy directly on X, emphasizing that her words had been taken out of context.
“I’m going to clarify because people are dragging this out of context,” Gauff wrote. “I’m not expecting people to travel to tournaments to watch us play.”
She explained that her comments were aimed specifically at American fans who are already present at tournaments abroad, not those watching from home. According to Gauff, she has often noticed a difference in atmosphere when compared to supporters from smaller nations.
“But there are many tournaments that we have in America and abroad where Americans are already attending, regardless of who is playing (excluding U.S. Open) where people come and don’t really cheer for their countryman player,” she said.
Gauff contrasted that with the passionate displays she sees from other nations. “Whereas those from smaller countries come with their colors and flags and it is clear on who they are supporting,” she added.
Importantly, Gauff acknowledged the broader realities of American sports culture and accessibility. “I was just speaking from my perspective,” she continued. “Trust me I understand the financial aspect of things and know tennis is not accessible for everyone.”
She reiterated that support is never owed. “People don’t owe me anything. I was just honestly answering a question I was asked,” Gauff wrote, before adding, “Nevertheless, I am grateful for any support, no matter how big or small it is.”
Those comments followed her earlier blunt assessment during a United Cup press conference, when she said, “I feel like we’re definitely, in the tennis department, the worst,” referring to crowd support abroad. She later added important nuance, noting, “I’ve always said I wish our country in other places would show up throughout the world… but I also think it’s just because our country is good at so many sports, so it’s just hard.”
United Cup setback and ranking shift for Gauff
While the debate unfolded, Gauff also endured a challenging on-court moment at the United Cup. After opening the tournament with dominant wins – including a lopsided victory over Solana Sierra and two doubles wins for Team USA – her momentum stalled against Bouzas Maneiro.
Plagued by serving struggles and 14 double faults, Gauff fell 6-1, 6(3)-7, 6-0 in a frustrating loss. The defeat confirmed a ranking shift that had already been mathematically decided.
Due to the United Cup being held a week later than last year, Gauff’s 2025 title points dropped off before the event began. As a result, Amanda Anisimova overtook her as the top-ranked American, despite Gauff trailing by just 14 points.
Even so, Gauff remains in striking distance. A strong finish at the United Cup could still return her to the top – depending on Anisimova’s results elsewhere.
As the season unfolds, Gauff’s message is clear: her comments came from passion, not criticism – and her focus remains firmly on competing, improving, and representing American tennis on the global stage.
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