Coco Gauff has never been one to hide her emotions on the court, but her latest display of frustration had fans concerned. The reigning French Open champion, just 22 years old, was caught on camera smashing her racket against her own head—not once, but twice—during a tense first set at the Italian Open on Saturday. The opponent? World No. 72 Solana Sierra, a player Gauff was expected to handle with ease.
After dropping that opening set 5-7, Gauff walked to her chair and, in a moment of raw frustration, took two hard whacks to her own head with her racket. It was a startling sight for a player who usually channels her energy into powerful groundstrokes and relentless defense. But true to her champion's spirit, Gauff regrouped and stormed back to win the next two sets 6-0, 6-4, advancing to the tournament's quarterfinals.
In her post-match press conference, Gauff opened up about what's been weighing on her. "Just personal things off court that I'm just trying to get through," she admitted. "But then you also remember how much fun you have. I think my regret today was not enjoying the battle, for sure." It's a candid moment from a young star who's been carrying the weight of being a Grand Slam champion since her stunning US Open victory in 2023.
Speaking to the Tennis Channel after the match, Gauff explained her unusual outburst: "You go through things off court, then you come on court and everything gets amplified. I didn't want to throw my racket or anything, so I took it out on myself. But maybe it's better to hit the ground than myself." It's a sentiment that resonates with any athlete who's ever struggled to separate personal life from professional performance.
This isn't the first time Gauff's emotions have boiled over this season. Back in January at the Australian Open, she was caught on camera breaking her racket after a straight-sets quarterfinal loss to Elina Svitolina. She later expressed regret that the "emotional" moment was broadcast, but it's clear that the world No. 3 is navigating more than just tough opponents right now.
As Gauff continues her run in Rome, fans will be watching closely—not just for her signature athleticism and powerful serves, but for signs that she's finding joy in the game again. After all, the best champions aren't just those who win; they're the ones who learn to love the battle, even when it's hard.