"I think it's weird I'm getting hate for following the rules."
Coco Gauff has defended her decision to stop play and request a review during her China Open third-round match against Xinran Sun after receiving online criticism and abuse. The incident occurred in the opening set at 4-5, 15-15, when Gauff halted play due to a flickering light on the side panels. The chair umpire concurred, and the point was replayed.
Following the match, which Gauff won 7-5, 6-1, she explained on social media that she stopped play because of the distraction and acted within tournament rules. Gauff called the resulting backlash ridiculous, noted she apologized to Sun after the match, and stated that Sun completely understood.
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