Coco Gauff is proving she’s just as skilled off the court as she is on it when it comes to handling critics. After clinching her second WTA 1000 title with a victory at the China Open, the 20-year-old American ace took to Instagram to celebrate—and took a jab at the naysayers who’ve doubted her ability to win big titles. Gauff’s post showcasing her trophy sparked an online frenzy, drawing both praise and criticism.
One critic dismissed Gauff, suggesting she had the “mentality of a five-year-old,” but Gauff delivered a sharp, viral response that left fans applauding her confidence. Her fans rushed to her defense, with one urging her to ignore the negativity and simply enjoy her triumph. Gauff, candid as ever, responded that she was on social media mostly out of boredom, giving fans a glimpse into her down-to-earth mindset.
The China Open win made Gauff the first American woman since Serena Williams to claim the title, as she triumphed over Karolina Muchova in the final. Her journey from US Open champion to now World No. 4 has silenced doubters and garnered widespread support, with fans cheering her assertiveness both on social media and the court.
