Gauff reports racist abuse after China Open replayed point

Coco Gauff said she received racist comments and direct messages online after a disputed point during her China Open match against Sun Xinran, whom she defeated 7-5, 6-1 to reach the tournament’s round of 16. The point was replayed after the umpire reviewed Gauff’s complaint about flickering court-side lights, and the decision prompted criticism online. The incident occurred Monday, October 5, during the first set, with Gauff serving at 4-5. She raised her hand to stop play after noticing the lights flicker, as Sun was preparing to return the ball. The umpire ordered the point replayed following a video review. Gauff won the replayed point and held serve, then took the set 7-5 and won the second 6-1. In posts on X on Tuesday, Gauff said people could disagree with her without using racist language. She described receiving racist comments and direct messages in the hours after the match and said the criticism did not make her a cheater or a thief. The reports of abuse are based on Gauff’s account; the volume and content of the messages have not been independently established. Gauff also said she challenged the point before Sun’s return after noticing the lights flicker again.