“Reminded why I left”: Gauff on online criticism

April 8, 2026 Oliver Obel

Coco Gauff has spoken candidly about the impact of social media criticism after a recent fashion campaign drew widespread attention and backlash online.

The 22-year-old tennis star appeared in a Miu Miu photoshoot that quickly circulated across X (formerly Twitter), where the images attracted millions of views and a surge of commentary.

While the campaign featured Gauff in a red polo shirt, skirt, and leather accessories, much of the online discussion centered on her natural hairstyle. Some users posted negative and, at times, abusive remarks in response to the images.

The photos were shared by the account Athlete Vanity, which later pushed back against the criticism, writing: “The real flex is loving yourself and how you appear and MiuMiu tapped into that unapologetically with these photos.” The account also described Gauff as “glowing.”

https://twitter.com/AthleteVanity/status/2039776945429246350

Gauff herself responded shortly after returning to the platform following a break. “deleted twitter for a month, came back today, and got instantly reminded why I should not be on here lol :/,” she wrote.

The reaction reflects a broader issue the American player has raised before. She has repeatedly spoken about the hostility athletes face online, describing social media as “toxic” and difficult to navigate.

In previous comments during tournament media appearances, Gauff detailed the severity of abuse she has received, including threats and harassment directed not only at her but also at people close to her.

“It’s the worst you can get. Death threats, to your family, to yourself,” she said. “I’ve had people DM my boyfriend and friends about it. Racist comments, like all you can imagine. Nudity, things like that. It’s a gross kind of thing that we have going on in tennis.”

She has also called for stronger action from platforms, arguing that the issue extends beyond tennis to athletes and public figures more broadly. “It’s something that we have to keep bringing awareness to,” she said, adding that social media companies should play a larger role in protecting users.

The renewed attention on Gauff’s experience comes amid ongoing conversations in sport about online abuse and the responsibility of digital platforms to address it.

On the court, Gauff recently reached the Miami Open final, where she finished runner-up to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. She is expected to return to competition at the Stuttgart Open later this month.

Sources: SPORTbible