Coco Gauff recently emphasized the significance of using her platform as a tennis player to advocate for marginalized communities worldwide, prioritizing her role as a voice for the “voiceless.”
Known for her vocal stance on various social issues, Gauff reiterated her commitment to speaking out during her pre-tournament press conference at the WTA 1000 Qatar Open.
She emphasized that her identity as a person transcended her identity as a tennis player, placing importance on being a beacon for those whose voices often go unheard.
“For me, being a tennis player comes after who I am as a person. I always prioritize God, family, friends, and community ahead of tennis. So, I must continue speaking up and advocating for those who need a voice,” expressed Coco Gauff.
Gauff highlighted the significance of playing in regions like the Middle East, where minority communities face diverse challenges. She believed that engaging with such communities during tournaments fostered a deeper connection and understanding.
“When I compete in places with more minority representation, there’s a sense of connection because we all navigate unique struggles based on our backgrounds.
It’s about acknowledging and relating to each other’s experiences, regardless of our differences. I sense that connection in the crowd and interactions around the tournament site,” Gauff reflected.