Unforgettable!" Coco Gauff Reacts to Unexpectedly Passionate Saudi Fans After Final Showdown with Qinwen Zheng

In a recent final showdown against Qinwen Zheng, Coco Gauff experienced a level of support she hadn't anticipated—from the Saudi fans. The 19-year-old tennis sensation was visibly moved by the enthusiastic crowd at the Diriyah Tennis Cup, a rare event for the country, and one where fans showed an unexpectedly intense passion for the sport and the young American star.

Reflecting on the atmosphere, Gauff admitted, "I didn’t expect the crowd to be so into it! They were cheering, clapping for every shot. It was incredible." Gauff, used to large audiences, found the energy in Saudi Arabia unique and “truly unforgettable.” What stood out most, she said, was the way the fans supported both players, creating an atmosphere of respect and excitement that pushed her to bring her best to the court.

Gauff, who had some doubts before arriving about how the Saudi crowd would react to her playing style and personality, felt that the experience shattered all her preconceptions. “They made me feel like I belonged here, and that means a lot,” she said with a smile, hinting that she would love to return to play in Saudi Arabia.

The final itself was a hard-fought battle, with Zheng giving Gauff a run for her money. But with the crowd’s loud encouragement, Gauff pushed through, delivering some of her finest shots to date. For her, the Saudi fans left an indelible mark on her memory, one she says will inspire her in upcoming tournaments.