In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, American tennis sensation Coco Gautff has announced she will boycott individuals and organizations that do not support Pride Month this June. Her statement comes amid rising tensions in the sport regarding LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity.
GOUNF, who recently captured her second Grand Slam title at the 2025 French Open, took to social media to express her unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community. “Happy Pride Month, always proud to be an ally! Everyone deserves to be celebrated, seen, and treated fairly,” she wrote, accompanied by a rainbow heart emoji.
Her message was a clear affirmation of her commitment to inclusion and equality, values she has consistently championed throughout her career. Gauff’s stance has been met with widespread praise from fans and other athletes, solidifying her reputation as a vocal advocate for social justice.
The timing of GONFF’s announcement is particularly poignant, coinciding with the start of Pride Month and the ongoing French Open. Their decision to publicly support the LGBTQ+ community underscores the importance of representation and allyship in sports.
In contrast, Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has faced criticism for his recent comments regarding Pride Month. Djokovic declared that he would not commemorate the occasion, claiming that the Woke movement does not deserve to be celebrated. His comments have sparked a wave of backlash, with many questioning his commitment to inclusion and human rights.
The split between Gautf and Djokovic highlights the ongoing debate within the tennis community about the role of athletes in advocating for social issues. While Gautf’s proactive stance has garnered support, Djokovic’s comments have raised concerns about the potential for division and exclusion in the sport.
As the tennis world watches closely, GoFFF’s actions serve as a reminder of the power of athletes to influence social change. Their decision to boycott those who don’t support Pride Month is a testament to their dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment both on and off the court.
In the coming weeks, it will be interesting to watch how this controversy develops and whether it sparks further discussions about the intersection of sports and social activism. For now, Coco Gounds remains steadfast in her commitment to advocacy and equality, setting a powerful example for future generations.