The glitz and glamour of professional tennis often mask its darker side. While players bask in the adoration of fans, they also become targets of criticism and hate. Coco Gauff, a rising star on the WTA tour, has firsthand experience with this duality. Coco Gauff, in an exclusive interview with National News, revealed how she handles the intense criticism she faces, particularly after losing in major tournament semifinals and finals. The young star has transformed negativity into fuel for her success.

“I honestly think maybe just because of how I entered the scene – people are very critical of me. I take it as a compliment,” Coco Gauff shared. She believes the intense scrutiny is a reflection of the high expectations people have for her. “Maybe they’re critical about people that they feel like can do better, so I just try to be better.”

Gauff also highlighted the double standard she feels exists in tennis, noting that her losses are often judged more harshly compared to other players. “I guess maybe another player would maybe do the same result as me and I get crucified for it and they get applauded,” she explained. However, instead of responding directly to critics, Gauff uses her success on the court as her ultimate answer. “When I win, I’ll be like, that’s going to be my clap back.” However, this isn’t the first time Gauff has discussed handling criticism.

During the US Open, she revealed her strategy for blocking out online hate. “I’m not entitled to read negative things about myself. Just as you’re entitled to write that, I’m entitled to block it,” she said. Gauff even joked about how quickly she blocks negative comments on X, formerly Twitter. “They are, like, ‘You say anything, and she blocks.’ Yes, I do,” she said with a laugh, adding, “I don’t want to see it, so bye.”

Despite winning the China Open, Coco Gauff had to deal with some hatred from tennis fans who said that she had the mentality of a 5-year-old. But Gauff, being Gauff, had the perfect answer to the user.

Coco Gauff shut down a hater after winning the China Open

Coco Gauff defeated Karolina Muchova 6-1, 6-3 in the finals of the China Open to clinch the title. After her remarkable victory, Coco Gauff took to Instagram to share her excitement with her followers. However, not everyone was as supportive of her win. One user attempted to undermine her achievement by posting that story on his X (formerly Twitter) account and commenting, “Coco has the mentality of a 5-year-old, I’m sorry.” Instead of letting the negativity get to her, Gauff delivered a perfect comeback to shut down the hater perfectly.

Gauff fired back with grace, saying, “Honestly, kids have the best outlook on life. They are so positive and creative, so I’ll take it.” She further explained how she had a child-like mentality during the tournament. She aimed to play with the same joy and freedom she felt when she first fell in love with tennis. It was evident in her performances as well. Throughout her China Open campaign, she lost just 3 sets and went on to win the title.

Rather than letting the criticism bring her down, Gauff loves her qualities of creativity, positivity, and joy. Her victory at the China Open and her graceful handling of online hate continue to highlight her growing strength both on and off the court.