By ggablog 
The glamour of professional tennis often conceals its darker side. While players enjoy the adoration of fans, they also face criticism and hostility. Rising WTA star Coco Gauff knows this reality all too well. In an exclusive interview with National News, she shared her approach to handling intense scrutiny, especially after losses in major tournament semifinals and finals, explaining how she uses negativity to fuel her success.
In her words, “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 interprets this criticism as a sign of high expectations. “Maybe they’re critical about people they feel can do better, so I just try to be better.”
Gauff also addressed what she sees as a double standard in tennis, saying her losses often receive harsher judgment compared to other players’. “I guess maybe another player would get the same result as me, and I get crucified for it while they’re applauded,” she noted. Instead of responding to critics, Gauff lets her performance speak for itself, adding, “When I win, that’s going to be my clap back.”
This isn’t the first time Gauff has discussed handling criticism. During the US Open, she revealed her method for dealing with online hate. “I’m not obligated to read negative things about myself. Just as you’re entitled to write that, I’m entitled to block it,” she said. She even joked about her quickness to block negativity on X, formerly Twitter, laughing, “People say, ‘You say anything, and she blocks.’ Yes, I do. I don’t want to see it, so bye.”
After winning the China Open, where she defeated Karolina Muchova 6-1, 6-3 in the final, Gauff continued to face criticism. A social media user mocked her mentality, saying she had “the mentality of a 5-year-old.” Gauff responded gracefully, stating, “Honestly, kids have the best outlook on life. They’re so positive and creative, so I’ll take it.” She shared that she had embraced a child-like mindset throughout the tournament, playing with the joy and freedom she first felt when she fell in love with tennis. Her impressive performance, losing just three sets on her way to the title, was a testament to that mindset.
