“Maybe someone at the airport tips them off”: Coco Gauff raises alarm over athletes being stalked at airports
WTA
Coco Gauff recently spoke about her experiences with stalkers at airports and her fear over how some have managed to access her personal information. The World No. 3 has become one of the most marketable and highest-paid female athletes in recent years, attracting significant public attention.
While Gauff receives immense support from fans worldwide, she has also had unsettling encounters, similar to many other athletes who have reported being victims of stalking.
Recently, multiple Olympic champion Gabby Thomas, who competes in track and field, revealed in a TikTok video that she has been stalked at airports in various cities."It doesn't matter what city. They've come when I was traveling to and from Chicago, they've come when I'm traveling to and from Miami. And they have my flight information.”
"What scares me is that they have my flight information even when I don't even know what time I'm flying out sometimes — I don't tell anyone my flight information,” she added.
2023 US Open champion Coco Gauff responded to Thomas’s video, admitting she has experienced similar incidents and sharing her theory on how stalkers might be obtaining athletes’ flight details. "This happens to me too, I don't know how it happens. My theory is maybe someone at the airport tips them off."
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Gauff has topped the list of highest-paid female athletes in 2023 and 2024, drawing major media attention and public scrutiny. The World No. 3 is set to begin her Middle East swing next week, making her debut at the Qatar Open on February 10, alongside Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, and other top players.
@itsgabbythomas They know the airport, day, time, gate, everything!!! Who do I report them to?? #fyp ♬ original sound - Gabby Thomas
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.
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