Coco Gauff says American fans are 'the worst' at supporting players

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Coco Gauff says American fans are 'the worst' at supporting players originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Coco Gauff isn’t known for sugarcoating, and ahead of the United Cup and Australian Open, the American star delivered a blunt assessment of fan support on the road — particularly when it comes to tennis.

According to Tennis365, as the United States begins its United Cup title defense in Australia, Gauff acknowledged that American players often compete overseas without the same visible backing enjoyed by athletes from other nations. When asked whether she expected a strong U.S. presence in the stands, the 21-year-old didn’t hesitate.

“I’ll be honest, no,” Gauff said. “I feel like we’re definitely, in the tennis department, the worst when it comes to that.”

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The comment wasn’t meant as a slight against individual fans, but rather an observation shaped by years of international competition. Gauff pointed out that players from smaller countries often benefit from passionate, travel-ready supporters who show up in force wherever tournaments are held.

“I’ve always said I wish our country in other places would show up throughout the world as we see maybe smaller countries support,” she explained.

Gauff also offered context for why that might be the case. The United States dominates across so many professional sports that attention — and travel — can be spread thin.

“I also think it’s just because of our country is good in so many sports, so it’s just hard,” she said.

The United Cup, held across Perth and Sydney, places added emphasis on atmosphere. The mixed-team event blends ATP and WTA competition, turning every tie into a collective national effort rather than an individual pursuit. For the defending champions, crowd energy can be felt even more acutely.

While American fans may be less visible in Perth, Gauff noted that Melbourne typically draws a larger U.S. turnout during the Australian Open. Still, she hopes that changes as the United Cup progresses.

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“I definitely think there are Americans that come out more in Melbourne than necessarily here,” Gauff said. “But I would like to see some more Americans, if we make it to Sydney, in Sydney than there were last year.”

Despite the relative lack of vocal support, Gauff rejected the idea that the United States enters the tournament as an underdog. With the top seed and a loaded roster, she sees no reason to frame it that way.

“No, because we’re the No. 1 seed, so there’s no underdog in that standpoint,” she said.

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