Coco Gauff Slams Racist Abuse After Controversial Beijing Match

Tennis star Coco Gauff has spoken out against a wave of racist abuse directed at her social media channels following a controversial video review ruling during the China Open in Beijing.

“Hello everyone, you can dislike me or disagree with what happened without being racist,” Gauff wrote in a post on X, responding directly to online attacks. “The amount of racist comments and direct messages I’ve received in the last few hours is insane. And once again: I am neither a cheater nor a thief.”

Controversial Video Review Sparks Online Backlash in Beijing

The online hostility followed a third-round match between the American world number four and 16-year-old local player Sun Xinran at the WTA 1000 tournament in the Chinese capital. With Gauff trailing 4–5 and facing a 15–15 scoreline in the first set, she approached the net after missing a volley and raised her hand to signal to the chair umpire that she had been distracted by changing LED advertising boards alongside the court.

Following a video review, the chair umpire ruled in Gauff’s favor, allowing the point to be replayed. Gauff held serve, secured the opening set, and ultimately closed out the match with a 7–5, 6–1 victory. Television cameras captured a visibly emotional Sun fighting back tears during a subsequent changeover.

Gauff Defends Rule-Following Amid Cheating Allegations

Critics across social media accused Gauff of manufacturing an unfair advantage, prompting the two-time Grand Slam champion to defend her actions on Instagram. She maintained that she acted strictly in accordance with the rulebook and that the final decision rested entirely with the official.

Gauff wrote that the situation was unfortunate and that it was strange that she was receiving hate for having followed the rules.

Boris Becker Offers Public Support to the WTA Star

German tennis icon Boris Becker stepped in to condemn the online abuse, reposting Gauff’s statement on social media to offer words of encouragement. The three-time Wimbledon champion urged the American player to ignore her critics.

You are a proud black woman and we love you! Don’t care about the comments of these ignorant, stupid people and don’t look at them. You are special and unique! Keep your head held high! Greetings from the Becker family!

Becker wrote that Gauff should keep her head held high, calling her unique and reminding her of the strong support behind her.