Rising tennis star Coco Gauff found herself at the center of controversy this weekend after a crushing loss to Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in the final of the Italian Open — a match that ended with Gauff retiring early and reportedly returning to the United States immediately afterward. The defeat not only shocked fans but also sparked a wave of harsh online criticism, with many questioning the young American’s performance, attitude, and mental toughness.

Gauff, ranked No. 3 in the world entering the tournament, had high hopes of capturing her first major clay-court title ahead of the French Open. However, things took a dramatic turn during the final on Sunday when the 20-year-old was thoroughly outplayed by Paolini, losing the first set 6-2 before withdrawing midway through the second set due to what her camp described as “severe discomfort and emotional stress.”

While the official reason for her retirement was not confirmed by the WTA, sources close to Gauff’s team cited “accumulated fatigue and stress-related issues” as key factors behind her decision to quit the match — a decision that quickly drew the ire of tennis fans across the globe.

Social Media Backlash

Shortly after the match ended, social media was flooded with negative comments directed at Gauff, with hashtags like #GauffQuit, #ItalianOpenFinal, and #PaoliniVictory trending worldwide. Critics accused her of lacking the resilience expected from a top-tier athlete.

One user wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

“Disgusting… What a loser. Can’t believe she just walked off like that. Champions fight to the end.”

Another chimed in:

“She talks about being a role model, then quits on the biggest stage. Coco Gauff isn’t ready for the spotlight.”

Others were more forgiving, pointing out the immense pressure Gauff faces as a young athlete in the global spotlight.

“People forget she’s only 20. Mental health matters. If she needed to walk away, let her heal,” one fan posted.

Still, the criticism has overshadowed what should have been a celebration for Paolini, who claimed her first WTA 1000 title in front of a home crowd. The Italian played with poise and confidence throughout the tournament and proved too much for Gauff in every department — dominating with her groundstrokes, movement, and mental composure.

Immediate Departure Sparks Rumors

Adding fuel to the fire, Gauff reportedly left Rome just hours after the match ended, taking a private flight back to the United States. Her team has declined to provide further comments, and Gauff has remained silent on social media, further fanning speculation about her current mental state and readiness for the upcoming Grand Slam in Paris.

Many tennis pundits are now questioning whether Gauff will be mentally prepared for the French Open, which begins in less than two weeks. Her sudden withdrawal has sparked concern about her fitness — both physical and psychological.

“Tennis is more than just talent — it’s about grit,” said former world No. 1 Justine Henin during a post-match commentary. “Coco has the tools, but she’s still learning how to handle the weight of expectations. Losses like these are part of that journey.”

Support from the Tennis Community

Despite the backlash, several prominent figures in the tennis world have spoken out in Gauff’s defense. Fellow American player Jessica Pegula posted a message of support:

“Tough loss for Coco. We all have bad days. She’ll be back stronger.”

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, who has publicly battled mental health challenges herself, tweeted:

“Let’s not forget how hard this sport is. People are quick to judge but slow to understand.”

Gauff’s sponsors, including New Balance and Barilla, have also remained silent amid the controversy, though insiders suggest her team is working to manage both her recovery and her public image.

What’s Next for Gauff?

With the French Open fast approaching, all eyes will be on Gauff to see how she bounces back from this difficult chapter. For now, it remains unclear whether she will compete in any warm-up matches before Roland Garros or take time off to recover mentally.

In a sport where both triumph and defeat are played out in public view, Gauff’s recent stumble is a reminder of how quickly narratives can shift — from rising star to target of ridicule, all within days.

Yet if history has shown anything, it’s that Coco Gauff is nothing if not resilient. Whether this moment becomes a setback or a stepping stone remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the world will be watching.