*Coco Gauff voiced disappointment with broadcasters after her emotional reaction to a quarterfinal defeat became public viewing during the Australian Open. The tennis star was filmed destroying her racket following a straight-sets loss to Elina Svitolina on Tuesday, January 27, despite her efforts to find a private location away from cameras.
PEOPLE reports that the 21-year-old struggled throughout the match, recording 26 unforced errors and converting just two of 11 second-serve points. Following the disappointing performance, Gauff retreated behind a barrier and repeatedly struck her racket against the concrete surface.
During her post-match press conference, Gauff questioned the decision to broadcast the moment. She referenced a similar situation involving Aryna Sabalenka after their US Open final encounter, suggesting certain private moments deserve protection from television coverage. “I tried to go somewhere where I thought there wasn’t a camera because I don’t necessarily like breaking rackets,” Gauff explained.
I honestly don’t see anything wrong with Coco Gauff smashing her racket out of anger and frustration.
That loss to Elina Svitolina was painful and humiliating.
Players are human too, and they should be allowed to show emotion in moments like that pic.twitter.com/oZ60rOzfmL
— SportsDeeva (@Blesing_Andrew) January 27, 2026
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Gauff revealed she had previously broken a racket at the French Open and promised herself she wouldn’t repeat that behavior on court. “I don’t feel like that’s a good representation,” she stated, indicating her awareness of serving as a role model.
Gauff clarified that she intentionally moved away from her coaching team before venting her frustration. “They’re good people,” she noted. “They don’t deserve that, and I know I’m emotional.”
Despite her concerns about the footage being broadcast, Gauff defended her need for emotional release. She emphasized her efforts to avoid such displays in front of young spectators but acknowledged the necessity of processing intense feelings. “I don’t think it’s a bad thing,” she said regarding her emotional outlet. “I don’t try to do it on court in front of kids and things like that, but I do know I need to let out that emotion.”
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