Coco Gauff’s Australian Open campaign ended in frustration at the quarterfinal stage, losing 6-1, 6-2 to Elina Svitolina.
The world number three was open about her emotional response after the match and explained why she chose to smash her racquet away from the court.
Gauff framed the moment as a way to manage her emotions without directing frustration toward her team.
Her comments quickly sparked debate, with PGA Tour golfer Michael Kim offering a contrasting perspective.
Coco Gauff explains why she smashed her racquet after Australian Open loss
Speaking candidly after her defeat, Gauff explained that the moment was about protecting those around her rather than losing control.
She stressed that she would rather take her frustration out on an object than allow it to affect her team.
“Yeah, definitely. I think for me, I know myself. I don’t want to lash out on my team. They’re good people. They don’t deserve that,” Gauff said.
“I know I’m emotional. I just took a minute to go and do that. I don’t think it’s a bad thing.”
Gauff also made it clear that she is conscious of her behaviour on court and the example it sets.
“I don’t try to do it on court in front of kids and things like that,” she added.
“But I do know I need to let out that emotion.. otherwise I’m just gonna be snappy with the people around me.”
“I don’t want to do that. Like I said, they don’t deserve it. They did their best. I did mine. Just need to let the frustration out.”
Michael Kim challenges idea that smashing equipment releases anger
Michael Kim responded by questioning the effectiveness of that approach while making it clear his comments were not intended as criticism of Gauff personally.
“I’ve heard this many times, but most psychologists and experts will tell you that getting the anger ‘out’ like this doesn’t work,” Kim wrote. “It spikes adrenaline and raises heart rate from that action.”
Kim also suggested that these moments can sometimes be performative, even if unintentionally.
He explained that public outbursts can be a way for athletes to express that they feel their performance was below their true level.
“I’ve also found that people do it for show. It’s a way of showing ‘I’m much better than this,’” he added.
“This isn’t meant to be a shot at Coco. I’ve heard this theory multiple times and wanted to share what I’ve learned and experienced.”
The exchange highlights a broader debate about how elite athletes process disappointment.
While Gauff views controlled release as self-management, Kim argues that staying calm may be the more effective response.
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