Coco Gauff Brands US Tennis Fans 'The Worst' in Brutally Honest Interview
She didn't hold back.
Featured Image Credit: @TennisONEApp
Topics: Tennis, Australian Open
Tom Jenkins
Topics: Tennis, Australian Open
US tennis star Coco Gauff has responded after her comments about American tennis fans caused a stir ahead of the Australian Open.
Gauff is one of the US's brightest sporting talents, winning her second Grand Slam singles title last year at the French Open.
The 21-year-old tennis star was the highest paid female athlete last year according to Forbes, earning a staggering $33 million.
Gauff rarely causes any controversy, however, her recent comments at the United Cup in Australia caused a stir after she was asked about the support she receives from US fans.
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"I'll be honest, no," Gauff admitted.
"I feel like we're definitely in the tennis department the worst when it comes to that."
The world number four did explain she understood other factors that come into play, particularly the fact the US are so successful in most sporting fields.
"I've always said I hope, I wish our country and other places would show up throughout the world as we see like maybe smaller countries support, but I also think it's just because of the, our country is good in so many sports, so like it's just hard," she added.
"I definitely think there are Americans that come out more in Melbourne than necessarily here, but I would like to see some more Americans if you make it to Sydney and Sydney than there were last year."
Following backlash for her comments, Gauff took to social media on Monday morning to clarify her stance on the matter.
She wrote on X: "lol I'm going to clarify because people are dragging this out of context.
"I‘m not expecting people to travel to tournaments to watch us play, but there are many tournaments that we have in America and abroad where Americans are already attending regardless of who is playing (excluding us open) where people come and don’t really cheer for their countrymen player.
"Whereas those from smaller countries come with their colors and flags and it is clear on who they are supporting. I was just speaking from my perspective.
"Trust me I understand the financial aspect of things and know tennis is not accessible for everyone, it was more of a comment for those who are already attending and how I wish they were as passionate as those from other countries more specifically team events.
"People don’t owe me anything I was just honestly answering a question I was asked and it was simply an observation I noticed about other countries vs mine that is all. Nevertheless I am grateful for any support no matter how big or small it is," she concluded.