“She lives in a little millionaire bubble": American columnist slams Coco Gauff's political stance after Roland Garros win
WTA
Coco Gauff has drawn criticism from American sports columnist Jason Whitlock for her outspoken stance against Donald Trump. Recently, the French Open champion referred to "dark times" after the American president's election, and this time she again touched on the subject.
In a press conference, Gauff was asked what it meant for her to win her second Grand Slam title and for the people in the USA. Coco became the first female tennis player to win more than one major since Serena Williams obtained her second Slam title in 2003.
"Obviously there's a lot going on in our country right now. To be able to be a representation of people that look like me in America who maybe don't feel as supported during this time period, and so just being that reflection of hope and light for those people.”
The world No. 2 has previously been critical of current president Trump, and even called for a vote for Kamala Harris in the last election. "I remember after the election and everything, it kind of felt like a down period,” she added in the press conference. “My mom told me, 'Try to win the tournament to give something for people to smile for.' So that's what I was thinking about today when holding the trophy.”
With her recent statements, Gauff received criticism in her country. Columnist Jason Whitlock spoke about the "imaginary world" in which the athlete lives. “She’s proud to represent the people that look like her and support the things that she supports,” he said, echoing what Gauff said. “And somehow, America since the re-election of Donald Trump is some sort of hellhole that she’s experiencing and all black people are experiencing.”
“Nothing different has changed for her,” he added. “She lives in a little millionaire bubble. Nothing’s changed. But she’s convinced that working class and the rest of black America and the people that think like her because Trump’s in office, oh my lord, what must be going on in their world? They must be living under such oppression.”
Gauff is currently taking a short break after winning the Roland Garros title and will return to the court on June 16 at the Berlin Ladies Open – her only grass-court tournament prior to Wimbledon. The draw will feature 14 of the top 15 players (with the sole exception of Iga Swiatek). Gauff is emerging as a candidate for Wimbledon, which begins at the end of the month, despite never having advanced past the fourth round of the tournament.
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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