Tennis Star Coco Gauff’s French Open Opponent Facing Backlash For Saying Coco’s Victory Was Not Because She Played Incredible’

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Tennis Star Coco Gauff’s French Open Opponent Facing Backlash For Saying Coco’s Victory Was Not Because She Played Incredible’

Tennis player Aryna Sabalenka is catching heat online following her controversial comments after losing the French Open final to Coco Gauff this weekend.

 

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Despite Coco fighting through windy conditions and a tough comeback to defeat Sabalenka and secure her second Grand Slam title, Aryna suggested the win was less about Coco’s performance and more about her own collapse on the court.

In a surprisingly blunt post-match interview, Aryna said:

“It was the worst final I have ever played…I think she won the match not because she played incredible, just because I made all of those mistakes.”

She added that she believed Iga Swiatek, who Aryna beat in the semis, would’ve won had she faced Coco instead:

“I think Iga… I think she would go out today and she would get the win. It just hurts.”

Fans online quickly called out Aryna for being a “sore loser,” arguing that Coco earned her win, especially given the high-pressure conditions and Aryna’s World No. 1 ranking.

Coco, who stayed classy but firm amid Aryna’s remarks, responded:

“I mean, I don’t agree with that. I’m here sitting here [as the champion].”

She added:

“No shade to Iga or anything, but last time I played her I won in straight sets. I don’t think that’s a fair thing to say, because anything can really happen…Her being No. 1 in the world was the best person to play, so I think I got the hardest matchup just if you go off stats alone.”

Whew. What do you think, was Aryna just being honest, or did she cross the line with her post-match shade?