After defeating Sun Xinran, Gauff says she’s been hit with racist slurs online. How could fans turn cruelty into commentary?
The world No. 4 dispatched the 16‑year‑old Chinese hopeful, winning 7‑5, 6‑1. The victory secured her spot in Beijing’s round of 16.
At 4‑5 in the opening set, Gauff lifted her hand to halt play as the court’s side lights flickered. She thought Sun had landed a winner.
She then claimed the next three points, leveling the set at 5‑5, and surrendered only one more game thereafter.
Gauff posted on X, calling the episode unfortunate and beyond her control. In my view, the abuse underscores a deeper cultural problem.
She added that Xinran is a remarkable talent, apologised after the match, and said the youngster fully understood.
Responding to a racist reply, Gauff wrote, “You can dislike me or dispute the incident without resorting to racism.” She emphasized respect.
She noted, “The flood of racist comments and DMs in recent hours is staggering.”
Finally, she asserted, “I’m neither a cheater nor a thief.”