DUBAI, UAE – Coco Gauff is adding her voice to a growing chorus of American athletes speaking out against the current political climate in the United States, specifically regarding immigration enforcement. The 21-year-old tennis star, currently competing in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, has expressed her dismay at recent events unfolding back home, including the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis last month.
Gauff’s comments came during a media session in Dubai, building on statements she initially made at the Australian Open in January. “I don’t think people should be dying in the streets just for existing,” Gauff stated, articulating a sentiment that resonates with a broader wave of athlete activism. She acknowledged the difficulty of witnessing these events while simultaneously representing the United States on the international stage.
“We see tough to wake up and see something because I do care a lot about our country,” Gauff explained. “I think people think I don’t for some reason, but I do. I’m very proud to be American.” However, she was quick to clarify that representing her country does not equate to endorsing every policy or action taken by its leadership. “You don’t have to represent the entire values of what’s going on in the leadership. I think there’s a lot of people around that believe in the things I believe in, believe in diversity and equality.”
The situation stems from increased immigration enforcement efforts, dubbed Operation Metro Surge, in Minnesota throughout January. The deaths of Good and Pretti, reportedly killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, sparked protests across the country and prompted many athletes to publicly address the issue. Gauff’s willingness to engage in these conversations sets her apart, as some players have opted for a “no comment” approach.
Gauff emphasized her commitment to honesty when asked about sensitive topics. “If you ask me, I’m going to give you my honest answer,” she said. “I think a lot of people on social media, like to say to stay out of politics, stay out of the things that are going on. You’re going to be asked these things in press. People want to hear our opinion on it.”
She isn’t alone in her outspokenness. Compatriot Madison Keys has championed immigrants and the diversity they bring to the U.S., expressing hope for national unity. Even athletes from other nations, like Team GB skier Gus Kenworthy, who grew up in America, have faced repercussions for speaking out against ICE, reportedly receiving death threats after posting an anti-ICE message on social media. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess, competing at the Winter Olympics, similarly asserted that representing the U.S. Flag doesn’t necessitate agreement with all government actions, a statement that drew a rebuke from President Trump.
The willingness of these athletes to address politically charged issues reflects a broader trend of increased social awareness and activism within the sports world. Snowboarders Bea Kim and Maddie Mastro have also voiced their concerns, with Kim stating the U.S. Is “very divided” but that “diversity is what makes us a very strong country,” and Mastro expressing sadness over the situation unfolding in the U.S.
Gauff’s conviction to speak her mind appears deeply rooted in her family history. She credits her maternal grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom, a pioneer in desegregation, with instilling in her a sense of activism. Odom was the first Black student to attend public school in Delray Beach, Florida, in the 1960s. “My grandma is literally an activist,” Gauff explained. “What we have is literally my life. I’m OK answering tough questions.”
As Gauff prepares for her matches in Dubai, she carries not only the weight of competition but also a sense of responsibility to use her platform to address issues she believes in. Her stance underscores a growing expectation for athletes to be more than just performers, but also engaged citizens willing to speak truth to power. The situation highlights the complex position athletes find themselves in – representing a nation while simultaneously grappling with its internal struggles – and Gauff’s willingness to navigate that complexity is garnering attention both on and off the court.
