Another American tennis player has sparked controversy at United Cup. First it was Taylor Fritz’s on court mockery insult of Sebastian Baez’s height, now its Coco Gauff, who surprisingly called out American tennis fans for being ‘the worst’ at supporting US players overseas: “I feel like we’re definitely, in tennis, the worst. I’ve always said I wish our country in other places would show up throughout the world as we see smaller countries support.”
Gauff then hedged her statement by saying that American fans may have too many different cheering options for other American athletes in other sports like NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, boxing, etc.
It has long been apparent that American tennis fans support for American players is far behind the wonderful support given generously by Brazilian fans to Joao Fonseca, Serbia fans to Novak Djokovic, Australian fans for all Australian players, Argentina fans for Juan Martin Del Potro, Spanish supporters for Carlos Alcaraz, and Italian fans for all Italian players except for Sinner.
American players like Coco, Fritz, Paul, Pegula, Collins, Anisimova, Navarro, Tiafoe never quite generate such passion and adoration at international tournaments that their achievements and ranking deserve.
Gauff quickly went on the defensive on social and explained her reasoning: “LOL I‘m going to clarify because people are dragging this out of context. I‘m not expecting people to travel to tournaments to watch us play. But there are many tournaments that we have in America and abroad where Americans are already attending regardless of who is playing (excluding US Open) where people come and don’t really cheer for their countrymen player. Whereas those from smaller countries come with their colors and flags and it is clear on who they are supporting. I was just speaking from my perspective. Trust me I understand the financial aspect of things and know tennis is not accessible for everyone, it was more of a comment for those who are already attending and how I wish they were as passionate as those from other countries more specifically team events. People don’t owe me anything I was just honestly answering a question I was asked and it was simply an observation I noticed about other countries vs mine that is all. Nevertheless I am grateful for any support no matter how big or small it is.”
Gauff certainly has a point. American support for American players, even in America, has long been a curious issue. It was most brazenly exposed at 2013 US Open when John Isner was battling Gael Monfils on Louis Armstrong Stadium in an afternoon thriller and it seemed like the entire arena was cheering for the Frenchman over the American. Isner was clearly bothered by the strange and embarrassing dynamic but he wisely did not make any issue of it. Isner somehow overcame the rejection and humiliation and managed to win the match 75 62 46 76 however he would lose the next four head to head matches vs Monfils (two of which were played at Indian Wells). Monfils won the overall head to head vs Isner 7-6.
American tennis fans can be fickle. Remember, John McEnroe was not a beloved hero at US Open which was just miles away from his hometown in Douglaston, Queens. Jim Courier and Michael Chang were never quite huge fan favorites however Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi may had something to do with that.
John McEnroe once told tennis journalist Richard Pagliaro about his disappointment in American fans at the 1979 US Open final vs Vitas Gerulaitis: “Two kids from Queens from the neighborhood, you’d think fans would be thrilled but they wanted to see Borg vs Connors.”
American tennis fans need to step it up and if they can perhaps that can be the missing X factor that can help elevate the next American Grand Slam champion. But also, American players may need to refine how they treat fans, speak to media and how they conduct their characters on court, which is very important in how to attract loyal, dedicated, adoring fans.
Sam Querrey also fired an indirect shot when he said last year on Tennis Channel that “ten Brazilian fans equal a hundred US fans” in terms of vocal support.
American nationalism by players does not seem to exist though, you do not get a sense that American players are playing for American pride or the American flag or American nationalism or anything to do with America. The general feeling is that American players are playing for themselves and the rewards for winning.
Matt Segel · January 5, 2026 at 10:16 pm
I would also add that perhaps the tennis fan demographic is wealthy and more liberal. Look at the pride events at the US Open as an example. In general this group is not as patriotic as other groups, at least in terms of waving the flag and being nationalistic. Many probably think Europe is more enlightened and civilized. Upper class sport with upper class fans, which I am not criticizing, just might be a reason for lack of enthusiasm for Americans.
Scoop Malinowski · January 5, 2026 at 10:47 pm
Hey Matt, welcome back. America lacks the unity of most other nations, we are a melting pot constantly being divided by the media and political agendas though generally we all naturally get along. Many or even most American fans prefer foreigners as their favorite players. I have to admit most of my favorite players are not American. It’s a very complex complicated topic.
Steve · January 6, 2026 at 4:19 pm
I agree. We are not great fans of our own. My favorite player at any given time is always from somewhere else.
I root for Brooksby because his game is so unique not because he’s American. That’s one of the cool things about tennis, it transcends boarders.
I hope someday we can unite on great healthcare for all but we can’t even get together for that.
Scoop Malinowski · January 6, 2026 at 4:59 pm
I like all the Americans and my favorite is Stefan Kozlov who won today 64 61 at Nottingham Challenger vs Tyler Zink. I believe he’s going to have a very good year in 26. Kozlov is still one of the most popular Americans, fans like his story and his diverse game and skills as how he plays is relatable to many players. Ridiculous US govt is giving American tax payer billions to fund free healthcare for israelis. That’s treason.
Sam · January 14, 2026 at 3:11 am
Since when is there an “obligation” for Americans to support American players various in sports? 🧐
It’s not like these players are defending our country on the battlefield or anything. So, sorry, Coco, but there’s no moral imperative for any of us to support them.
Scoop Malinowski · January 14, 2026 at 8:22 am
American tennis fans have not done a remarkable job of cheering since Jimmy Connors at US Open at age 39. And the USTA hiring those “netheads” for Davis Cup is just embarrassing.
Sam · January 24, 2026 at 4:44 am
Hadn’t heard about the “netheads.”
While I do have a soft spot for some American athletes, for the most part, I base my fandom on the person himself, not what country he comes from.
Scoop Malinowski · January 24, 2026 at 8:03 am
I think all tennis fans do that, but then there are the ultra nationalist nations who love their players no matter what – Argentina, France, Spain, Australia, Germany, UK, China, etc.