Coco Gauff, expected to make a deep run or even win the title, disappointed with a swift 1-6, 2-6 loss to Elina Svitolina, 10 years her senior, on 27/1/2026. Gauff's performance was plagued by errors, including 5 double faults, an 18% second-serve win rate, and losing 6 of 7 break points. She managed only three winners against 26 unforced errors.

Frustrated with her performance, Gauff maintained composure on court, only smashing her racket in the tunnel leading to the locker room. This area, though private, is monitored by cameras. The footage of Gauff's outburst was subsequently published by numerous news outlets.

Video of Gauff smashing her racket in a private area on 27/1/2026.

Gauff argued that organizers should not release images from inside the locker room area, stressing the need to protect individual privacy. "I should probably be allowed to express my frustration," she said. "I took it out on my racket, in an area with no spectators, not on anyone."

A similar incident involved women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka at the US Open 2023. After losing to Gauff in the final, Sabalenka also smashed her racket in the locker room. The video subsequently went public online, frustrating the Belarusian star.

"I once broke a racket during a match at Roland Garros and told myself I would never do it publicly again," Gauff added. "I tried to find a spot without cameras, but the footage was still broadcast."

Gauff expresses disappointment after losing a point in the Australian Open quarterfinals, on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia, on 27/1/2026. Reuters

Gauff's defeat denied her a first Australian Open final appearance. Second seed Iga Swiatek faced a similar disappointment, losing to Elena Rybakina 5-7, 1-6, and missing the chance to complete her Grand Slam collection.

The semifinals, set for 15:30 on 29/1/2026 (Hanoi time), will see Sabalenka play Svitolina. In the other match, Rybakina will face Jessica Pegula, who eliminated fellow American Amanda Anisimova 6-2, 7-6 on 28/1/2026.

Vy Anh