"If another player did the same, they’d get applause, and I’d get crucified": Coco Gauff on harsh expectations
WTA
Coco Gauff
addresses how she deals with criticism. The 2023 US Open champion became one of
the WTA’s sensations at just 14 years old. Over the past three seasons,
Gauff has established herself in the top 10 and has gained extensive
experience, despite being only 20.
The attention she attracted from a young age set high
expectations for Gauff. Back in 2019, the 15-year-old Gauff defeated five-time
Wimbledon champion Venus Williams in her tournament debut, advancing to the
Round of 16. However, it took several years for the American to meet these high
expectations with major titles.
"My wins are my clap back"
The world No. 3 won her first titles in Linz 2019 and Parma
2021, both in WTA 250 events, and many questioned if she could shine in the
more prestigious tournaments. Gauff reached the final of the 2022 French Open,
where she lost to Iga Swiatek, drawing heavy criticism for not meeting the
expectations around her.
Read also
However, in the 2023 US swing, everything changed for Gauff.
Now well-established in the top 10, she had an almost perfect month, winning
her first WTA 500 in Washington, her first WTA 1000 at the Cincinnati Open, and
her first Grand Slam title at the US Open.
The 20-year-old shared her thoughts on the criticism she
faces during her participation in the WTA Finals. “I honestly think maybe just
because of how I entered the scene - people are very critical of me. I take it
as a compliment,” Gauff told The National. “Maybe they're critical about
people that they feel like can do better, so I just try to be better.”
Coco Gauff at China Open.
“I feel like, just certain comments, I guess maybe another
player would maybe do the same result as me and I get crucified for it and they
get applauded,” the world No. 3 added. “So it's tough sometimes. And sometimes
I do want to clap back, but I just try to remember, when I win, I’ll be like,
that's going to be my clap back. So I do see it. It does motivate me.”
When Gauff won the 2023 US Open, it was the ultimate
response to those who doubted she could ever lift a major trophy. The American
addressed her critics during the trophy ceremony, saying, “Thank you to the
people who didn't believe in me.”
“Like a
month ago, I won a 500 title and people said I would stop at that. Two weeks
ago, I won a 1000 title and people were saying that was the biggest I was going
to get. So three weeks later, I'm here with this trophy right now.
“I tried my
best to carry this with grace and I've been doing my best. So honestly, to
those who thought [they] were putting water on my fire, you're really adding
gas to it. And now I'm really burning so bright right now.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- I predicted whenthe list was finalised that Linda Noskova would win the WTA Finals and her matches against Gauff and Kostyuk prove that. She is the best (underrated) player in the world!Rapunzel11-11-2026
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
