‘It definitely fuels me’ – Coco Gauff on grand and timely inspiration after Wimbledon comeback
Coco Gauff is channelling the strength of millions back home in the US after the monumental Supreme Court news that came out ahead of Wimbledon.
The 18-year-old has been open about wanting to use her platform to raise awareness and speak her mind in hopes others will find support in that.
After Roe v Wade, the landmark US decision on abortion, was overturned last week, the young star tweeted her disappointment and sadness on the matter.
While tennis is an individual sport, it has seen players stand for something greater than themselves.
Naomi Osaka did as much at the 2020 US Open when she wore a face mask after each win commemorating the life of a different person unlawfully killed by police in the US.
Tennishead asked Gauff if she is using the fact that she can be a light for millions as a source of power and strength at Wimbledon this year.
She replied: “Yes and no.
“I play for myself, but also at the same time I know there’s countless people watching me.
“I’m pretty active off the court regarding issues like that.
“It definitely does fuel me and motivates me to do even better.
“Today, even that helped a little bit just because people were saying [online] ‘you need to shut up and focus on tennis.’
“I like to win just to put that in their faces.”
Gauff won today from a set down against Romanian world number 54 Elena-Gabriela Ruse 2-6, 6-3, 7-5 to go three from three in first rounds in her young senior Wimbledon career.
Incredibly disappointed by the decision made today. The sad part is this will not stop abortions from happening… this will only increase illegal and unsafe abortions. Today is a very sad day for our country and I cannot believe once again history is repeating itself.
— Coco Gauff (@CocoGauff) June 24, 2022
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