Brief
Coco Gauff thanks fans after racist abuse controversy at China Open
The 22‑year‑old American expressed gratitude to supporters following online racist abuse and a match‑interrupting replay request.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Coco Gauff, world No. 4, used Threads to thank fans after enduring racist attacks during the China Open. The abuse, which she called "insane" in a prior interview, intensified when LED panels flickered during her match against Chinese qualifier Sun Xinran, prompting Gauff to request a video replay. The chair umpire granted the review and nullified the point, after which Gauff won 7‑5, 6‑1.
Fans rallied online, and Gauff posted, "I appreciate all the love and support ❤️❤️. I see the messages, and they really mean a lot. Thank you, thank you, thank you 🫂🫂," as reported by Sportskeeda.
Earlier in the tournament, Gauff lost 6‑3, 6‑3 to Elise Mertens, citing the draining effect of the racist abuse. She later withdrew from the Wuhan Open, citing fatigue and recovery needs.
Key facts
- Gauff requested a video replay after LED lights flashed during her match against Sun Xinran (sportskeeda.com)
- She won that match 7-5, 6-1 (sportskeeda.com)
- Gauff posted a thank‑you message on Threads after the incident (sportskeeda.com)
- She lost to Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3 earlier in the China Open, saying online racist abuse was draining (sportskeeda.com)
- Gauff withdrew from the Wuhan Open citing fatigue (sportskeeda.com)
Sources
- [1] sportskeeda.com — originally reported as “Coco Gauff breaks silence, sends emotional message after racist attacks at China Open”
