Coco Gauff, the rising star of tennis, has a unique perspective on dealing with negativity on social media. While most athletes might find it disheartening, Gauff admits that she “feeds off” such criticism, using it as fuel to prove her detractors wrong.
The American sensation has a distinct mindset that allows her to thrive amidst criticism, using it as a driving force to continue her ascent in the tennis world.
“I wouldn’t say that negativity is a good thing. I suppose it’s more of a source of inspiration for me.” In an interview with Simon Cambers for Tennis Majors, Coco Gauff stated that she wouldn’t advise everyone to do it.
“The majority of the time, it’s negative, but it’s not like it’s life-threatening. Some of those remarks have a tendency to get out of hand. I don’t know, it’s strange, maybe I feed off of negativity, but for the most part. That’s strange. Many players find it to be unpleasant. I am a really obstinate person. I enjoy debating. I enjoy disproving people,” she continued.
In her victory speech after winning her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open, the World No. 3 thanked those who doubted her, claiming they added “gas to her fire.” Gauff’s triumph came after winning a WTA 500 title and a WTA 1000 title in quick succession, defying expectations.
Now competing at the China Open, Gauff elaborated on her relationship with negativity, emphasizing that while it may not be suitable for everyone, it motivates her. She acknowledged that her approach is unorthodox, as most players prefer to avoid criticism. Gauff keeps filters on her Instagram to minimize negativity but admitted she still sees both positive and negative comments about herself.
Gauff in Beijing, ranking, and results in 2023
LWWLWWWWWL Now the world no.3 (career-high), Coco has a composed 46-13 win-loss record in 2023. Gauff is currently competing in Beijing where she bested the world no.20 Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-5 6-3.
Coco Gauff will come up against the world no.48 Petra Martic in the 2nd round on Tuesday at 3:00 pm on DIAMOND. Their head to head is 1-0 for Gauff.
Coco has won 4 titles in 2023 in Auckland, Washington, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
Coco won 6 titles in her career: 4 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts and 1 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
Coco Gauff |
| Embed from Getty Images |
