“Disgusting … what a loser” – the fans criticize Coco Gauff after his heavy defeat against Jasmine Paolini in the final of the Open of Italy, who forced her to retire and leave the United States.
The final of the Italian Open 2025 turned out to be one of the most surprising and dramatic of the recent tennis history, with a scorching defeat for Coco Gauff against the Italian tennis player Jasmine Paolini. The meeting, which was expected with great enthusiasm, had an epilogue that left many shocked fans and, in some cases, deeply disappointed. The young American star gave in front of Paolini’s determination, who dominated the game in a way that nobody would have expected. But what really shook public opinion was not only the defeat, but the reaction of the fans, who did not have pity towards Gauff, launching heavy criticism on social media.
A promised start of the game, but a ruinous ending
The game seemed to start with a certain hope for Coco Gauff, who was considered one of the favorites to win the title of the Open of Italy. With a series of impressive victories in previous rounds, Gauff was ready to bring the trophy home. However, things quickly went wrong. Paolini has imposed his aggressive game from the beginning, putting Gauff in difficulty with precise blows and a great ability to read the game. The American tennis player attempted to react, but her unformed errors and the lack of rhythm prevented her from keeping up with her opponent.
The public, who initially supported Gauff, began to show signs of disapproval when the young tennis player showed evident difficulties in the field. In the middle of the second set, Coco visibly lost confidence and began to give in under the growing pressure of Paolini, who closed the game decisively, conquering the title with a net score of 6-2, 6-3.
Gauff’s withdrawal and fans’ reaction
After the defeat, Gauff said he did not feel able to continue competing at the highest level, and has decided to retire from the tournament, an exit that has marked a moment of great disappointment for her. The reaction of the public, however, was not affectionate as we would have expected for a young promise of sport. Instead of receiving support, Gauff has been overwhelmed by an avalanche of criticism. Social media have become a place of expression for fans, some of whom have launched heavy accusations against her.
“Disgusting, which loser,” was one of the milder comments among those who have been published, while others questioned his ability to compete at the highest levels. The idea of being a “loser” and not being able to manage the pressure of such an important event has inflamed the debate between the fans. The disappointment towards Gauff was not limited only to defeat, but also to its reaction to it, which some have called “lack of character” and “emotional instability”.
A step back for Gauff
The young tennis player, who was praised for his mental strength and his incredible maturity since he was a teenager, found herself in front of a moment of great difficulty. This type of defeat, albeit inevitable in every sporting career, has hit his image hard. The pressure of the fans and the media is now a constant for those who are at the top of the sport, and Gauff, who had shown incredible skills in the course of his career, seems to have had difficulty managing it at this juncture.
His withdrawal from the competition aroused a series of speculations, with some who suggested that it was an emotional reaction to defeat, while others pointed out that, for the first time in his career, Gauff seemed really overwhelmed by the weight of the competition.
Jasmine Paolini: the new Queen of the Open of Italy
Meanwhile, Jasmine Paolini has received all the awards for his extraordinary performance. The Italian tennis player has conquered his first Grand Slam title in a final that will hardly forget. His victory has not only highlighted his talent and determination, but he also confirmed that Italian tennis is in a phase of great growth, with young athletes like Paolini ready to make his way on the international scene.
Paolini, who was applauded by the public for his concentration and for mental solidity during the game, said he was happy to have conquered the title in front of his audience. “This victory is a dream that comes true. It was not an easy game, but I believed in myself and in my shots. Coco is a great tennis player, but today my game made the difference,” said Paolini after the game.
The future of Coco Gauff
While Coco Gauff fans confront the disappointment of defeat, the young tennis player will face a period of reflection and growth. The defeat at the Open of Italy was a serious blow, but there is no doubt that Gauff has the skills to get up. However, the pressure of the fans, especially those who have criticized it harshly, will be a challenge that will have to face even off the pitch.
Coco Gauff has shown great resilience during his career, and although this defeat makes her seem vulnerable, her ability to face the difficulties could be what will lead her to grow further as an athlete. Over time, it could go back, stronger than before, but for now the road to recovery seems long, especially under the critical eye of its fans.
