Top tennis players have lifted the lid on the awkward encounters that take place inside locker rooms, where opponents must share intimate space before and after battling on court. Coco Gauff recalled a moment at the Australian Open when she joked with a player eating sweets after a match, only to be told it was 'depression candy' because they had lost.
Paula Badosa admitted she avoids eye contact with opponents in the locker room on match days, a tactic many players employ. Gauff said interactions with unfamiliar players are particularly tricky, as responses to greetings vary widely. Belinda Bencic noted that sharing golf carts to the court can be more uncomfortable than the locker room itself.
Gauff described the locker room as a 'minefield of emotion', where players may be in tears or rage after a match, making it hard to know how to react. Madison Keys, however, highlighted the positive side, saying the communal space offers immediate support from friends, unlike team sports where teammates provide that comfort.
Jannik Sinner said he now minimises time in the locker room, leaving quickly after training or matches. Stefanos Tsitsipas criticised players who develop an ego after a few good results, wishing more remained humble like basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
