UN Human Rights Office calls racist abuse directed at Coco Gauff ‘appalling’

People sent the 22-year-old abusive messages after she correctly stopped a point mid-rally.

By James Hansen · The Athletic

Published: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 10:11 AM

Key Things to Know

The UN Human Rights office condemned online racist abuse targeting Coco Gauff, calling the messages 'appalling.'
Gauff was targeted after correctly stopping play to request a hindrance review during a China Open match against Sun Xinran.
The UN urged sporting bodies, coaches, and players to stand up against racism and sexism in athletics.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The United Nations Human Rights office has condemned the online racist abuse directed at Coco Gauff as "appalling." The 22-year-old American faced widespread vitriol after halting a point mid-rally to request a valid hindrance review against Sun Xinran at the China Open in Beijing.

The UN stressed that Black female athletes are specifically targeted and called on sports organizations to protect them. Following the incident and a subsequent loss to Elise Mertens, an exhausted Gauff withdrew from the upcoming Wuhan Open citing fatigue.

Read the full article on The Athletic

UN Human Rights Office calls racist abuse directed at Coco Gauff ‘appalling’

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