World number four, Coco Gauff, addressed questions regarding the criticism she faced for thanking God during her speech at the WTA 1000 tournament in Madrid. The American tennis player reached the final of the `thousand` event, where she was defeated by world number one Aryna Sabalenka (3-6, 6-7(3)).
“I`m not trying to make anyone believe in anything here… I`m sharing my beliefs with those who also believe,” Gauff stated.
During a press conference, she was asked:
Question: I saw your runner-up speech in Madrid, and it was quite inspiring. Could you explain the importance of your faith in Jesus?
Coco Gauff: Yes, it`s very important to me. I know there`s a whole discussion online about this, but I`ve mentioned this in every speech I`ve given on Tour. I think there comes a point when you start facing criticism from others for your religion, or being proud of your sexuality, or something similar – it`s a form of censorship.
I believe we should all be able to do what we want, as long as it doesn`t harm others. For me, it`s important to share this and let other people know that it helps me, and maybe it can help someone else too,” the American player explained at a press conference in Rome.
Previously, Gauff shared her impressions of Ryan Coogler`s film `Sinners`, which tells the story of 1930s America, depicting World War I veterans returning to their hometown of Chicago and starting a business.
Marcus Prine