The Foro Italico in Rome, typically a stage for tennis brilliance, became the backdrop for a storm of online trolling targeting Carlos Alcaraz ahead of his Italian Open final against Jannik Sinner. The 22-year-old Spanish superstar, fresh off a commanding semifinal victory over Lorenzo Musetti, found himself at the center of a social media frenzy, with detractors mocking his appearance and performance. Yet, amidst the chaos, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff emerged as a steadfast ally, showcasing her loyalty and admiration for Alcaraz in a moment that highlighted their camaraderie.
The trolling began as Alcaraz prepared to face Sinner, the world No. 1, in a highly anticipated clash that promised to electrify the clay courts of Rome. Fans on social platforms, particularly vocal on X, seized the opportunity to poke fun at Alcaraz’s distinctive tournament outfit—a vibrant ensemble designed by Nike that featured bold patterns and colors. Critics labeled it “tacky” and compared it to “a rejected art project,” with some even questioning his focus on fashion over form. The jibes extended beyond his attire, with detractors resurfacing old clips of Alcaraz’s on-court celebrations, branding them overly theatrical. One particularly harsh post quipped, “Alcaraz spends more time posing than playing,” igniting a wave of memes and sarcastic comments.
Despite the barrage, Alcaraz remained unfazed, channeling his energy into his game. His journey to the final had been nothing short of remarkable. After missing the Madrid Open due to a hamstring injury, the four-time Grand Slam champion roared back in Rome, dispatching opponents with his signature blend of power and finesse. His 6-4, 6-4 quarterfinal win over Jack Draper was a testament to his resilience, as he saved six of eight break points and leaned on his trademark drop shots to outmaneuver the Brit. “The most important thing that I did today was not thinking about the shots at all,” Alcaraz said after the match. “Not thinking about the fact that I was down, just trying to do the things that make me happy. On court, I just tried to be aggressive, play good shots, drop shots, go to the net. That’s what I like to do on the court, and I think that made the difference today.”
Coco Gauff, who reached the women’s semifinals with a gritty 6-4, 7-6 (5) victory over Mirra Andreeva, didn’t hesitate to defend her friend. The 21-year-old American, known for her poise and candor, took to a press conference to express her admiration for Alcaraz’s ability to rise above negativity. Reflecting on their shared experiences, she recalled a lighthearted moment from the 2023 US Open when she playfully roasted Frances Tiafoe’s “confetti” outfit but praised Alcaraz’s bold style. “I said Carlos looked better,” Gauff had quipped at the time, a comment that resurfaced in Rome as a symbol of her unwavering support. “He’s got this aura that just draws people in, and he handles the pressure so well,” she said in Rome, her words carrying a warmth that contrasted sharply with the online vitriol.
Gauff’s support underscores the bond she shares with Alcaraz, a friendship forged through mutual respect and shared moments off the court. In 2024, the duo made headlines at the China Open, donning traditional Chinese attire to promote the event and exploring Beijing’s Forbidden City together. Their chemistry, captured in a viral video, showcased a dynamic that transcends competition. “Carlos is just so genuine,” Gauff said, reflecting on their time in Beijing. “He’s the kind of person who lifts everyone around him, and that’s why I’ll always have his back.”
As Alcaraz gears up to face Sinner, who holds a 6-4 head-to-head advantage, the trolling seems unlikely to derail his focus. The final, a clash of tennis titans, is a pivotal moment for Alcaraz to solidify his clay-court dominance ahead of the French Open. For Gauff, her semifinal run in Rome—her third at the tournament—signals her readiness for Roland Garros, where she aims to add to her Grand Slam tally. Together, their resilience in the face of adversity paints a powerful picture of the next generation of tennis stars, unbowed by criticism and united by friendship.
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