American tennis star Coco Gauff has moved to clarify controversial comments she made about the support of US fans at overseas tournaments, after her remarks sparked a backlash online.
Initial comments at United Cup press conference
The world number four made the observation during a press conference at the United Cup in Perth, where she opened her 2026 season. Gauff suggested that American fans travelling abroad were the "worst" at vocally supporting their players compared to supporters from smaller nations.
"I feel like we're definitely in the tennis department the worst when it comes to that," the 21-year-old stated. This came after her opening match of the season, a 6-1, 6-7 (3), 6-0 defeat to world No. 42 Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.
Social media clarification in context
Before taking to the court again, Gauff took to social media platform X to provide context, insisting her words had been dragged out of proportion. "I'm going to clarify because people are dragging this out of context," she wrote.
She emphasised she did not expect fans to travel specifically to watch matches, but was referring to Americans already attending tournaments at home and abroad who "don't really cheer for their countrymen" with the same visible passion.
"Those from smaller countries come with their colors and flags and it is clear on who they are supporting," Gauff explained. She acknowledged the financial barriers to tennis fandom but said it was "more of a comment for those who are already attending."
Teammate support and on-court recovery
Her United Cup teammate, Taylor Fritz, who was seated beside her during the original press conference, publicly backed her interpretation. "People always wanna take things in the worst possible way," Fritz wrote on X.
"I know exactly what Coco meant and was trying to say, and she's right. There is absolutely no disrespect meant to the US fans at all," he added, praising the "insane sports culture" of some other countries while expressing gratitude for American support.
Despite the furore, Gauff and the USA team progressed to the quarter-finals with wins over Spain and Argentina. Gauff rebounded from her singles loss to win 7-6(5), 6-0 in the mixed doubles alongside Christian Harrison, later signing autographs and taking photos with fans.
When asked if the reaction to her comments had affected her performance, Gauff was firm: "No. And I don't think it was piling on. I was just trying to clarify what I meant." She concluded by reiterating her gratitude for all support, "no matter how big or small."
