Coco Gauff Throws Shade At Donald Trump and opens up on 'dark times' for America after French Open triumph
Coco Gauff revealed she was driven to her
French Open title by a desire to give Americans something to smile about during dark times.
Asked how it felt to hear the US national anthem after her 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 defeat of
Aryna Sabalenka, the 21-year-old said: 'It means a lot. Obviously there's a lot going on in our country right now.
'To be able to be a representation of
people that look like me in America who maybe don't feel as supported during this time period, and so just being that reflection of hope and light for those people.
'I remember after the election and everything, it kind of felt like a down period. My mom told me during Riyadh (the WTA Finals in November, which Gauff won), "Try to win the tournament to give something for people to smile for". So that's what I was thinking about today when holding the trophy.
'And seeing the flags in the crowd means a lot. Some people may feel some type of way about being patriotic, but I'm definitely patriotic and proud to be American.
I'm proud to represent the Americans that look like me and people who kind of support the things that I support.'
After Donald Trump won his second term, she tweeted: 'Allow yourself to feel how you feel during tough times... especially today. Just lean on God with your concerns. He is the highest power. Remember that.'
MATTHEW LAMBWELL AT ROLAND GARROS: Gauff has a keen social conscience and has always used her platform to raise awareness about issues over which she feels strongly.
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