“Most of the internet coaches never coached anyone”: Coco Gauff shrugs off critics after Paula Badosa stuns third seed

Coco Gauff exited the Australian Open after a 7-5, 6-4 loss to a resurgent Paula Badosa on Tuesday. Despite the defeat, the American brushed off criticism from armchair pundits and “internet coaches” who claim to know better.

Gauff acknowledged she has more work to do following her exit but pointed out the difference between playing in the moment and offering commentary from the sidelines.

“I guess you just have to realize that most of the internet coaches have never coached anyone at my level or played at my level,” Gauff said during her post-match press conference. “You’ll hear people saying, ‘Oh, she should have made this or that.’ Even when I’m watching, I do that, but obviously, when you’re out there, it’s different.”

Gauff admitted that serve is often the focal point of criticism, but she understands that some feedback is well-intended as she works on improving her game.

“I take it with a grain of salt. Some people do mean well, so I don’t look at it as all bad,” she added. “I’m proud of myself, and that’s all I can say.”

With a smile, Gauff assured fans that she’s committed to meeting her own high expectations. “I promise that I’m going to continue to try my best to improve and live up to my own expectations of myself. What everyone else thinks, I can’t control that.”

Remaining gracious in defeat, Gauff praised Badosa for her strong performance. “Paula was playing great. Maybe some moments in the first set could have gone my way, but it could have been a different outcome,” she said.

Though disappointed, Gauff stayed positive about her future. “I think it’s just a lot more work to do. I’m obviously disappointed, but I’m not completely crushed. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”