**Coco Gauff Hilariously Clarifies ‘Cheaters’ Remark β Not About Jelena Ostapenko**
Coco Gauff, the young American tennis star, found herself at the center of some unexpected drama when a remark she made about “cheaters” during a press conference was misinterpreted by some fans and media outlets.
The incident took place shortly after her match at a 2024 tournament, where she defeated Jelena Ostapenko, the fiery Latvian known for her aggressive playing style and on-court antics.
In the post-match interview, Gauff made a light-hearted remark about how she sometimes faces “cheaters” on the court.
Some quickly jumped to the conclusion that Gauff was referring to Ostapenko, especially considering Ostapenko’s reputation for occasionally controversial behavior on the court, including disputes with umpires and opponents over line calls and time violations.
However, Gauff, known for her playful sense of humor, was quick to clarify the situation, assuring everyone that her comment was not directed at Ostapenko or any particular player.
In a follow-up statement, Gauff said with a laugh, *βGuys, when I said βcheaters,β I was talking about players who try to mess with your head β not anyone specific, and definitely not Jelena.β*
### **Context of the Remark: Gauffβs Playful Nature**
The confusion stemmed from Gauffβs general approach to interviews, where she often uses humor to express her feelings about the competitive nature of the sport. During the interview in question, Gauff was talking about the mental challenges of playing professional tennis, where players sometimes push the boundaries of the rules in subtle ways, such as taking too long between points or trying to distract their opponents.
Rather than accusing anyone of outright cheating, Gauff was referring to the gamesmanship that exists in high-level tennis. She also added, *βIβve played so many tough opponents, and sometimes you just get the ones who like to bend the rules a bit to see what they can get away with, but thatβs part of the game.β*
Gauff further elaborated that she has a great deal of respect for Ostapenko, who is known for her bold and aggressive play.
She emphasized that her comment was made in good fun and that she didnβt intend to single out any of her opponents. Gauffβs ability to quickly laugh off the misunderstanding and clarify her stance shows the maturity and composure she has developed at such a young age.
### **Jelena Ostapenkoβs Response**
Interestingly, Ostapenko, who has had her share of media controversies, also responded to the situation with humor. In a social media post, she quipped, *βNo hard feelings, Coco.
We all know you were talking about someone else!β* She accompanied the message with a laughing emoji, making it clear that there was no animosity between the two players.
The light-hearted back-and-forth between Gauff and Ostapenko provided a moment of relief and entertainment for tennis fans, who were glad to see both players taking the misunderstanding in stride.
### **Gael Monfils Discusses Managing Parenting with Elina Svitolina During Wimbledon**
On a different note, French tennis star Gael Monfils recently opened up about the challenges and joys of balancing professional tennis and parenting alongside his wife, fellow tennis player Elina Svitolina.
The couple, who welcomed their first child, a daughter named Skai, in 2023, have had to adapt to their new roles as parents while continuing to compete on the ATP and WTA Tours.
Monfils, known for his athleticism, charismatic personality, and spectacular on-court theatrics, spoke candidly about how he and Svitolina have been managing their parental duties while maintaining their rigorous schedules as professional tennis players.
Monfils revealed that the 2024 Wimbledon Championships were particularly challenging for the couple, as both he and Svitolina were competing while caring for their young daughter.
### **Parenting While Competing at Wimbledon**
During Wimbledon 2024, Monfils shared how he and Svitolina divided their responsibilities to ensure that one of them was always available to care for Skai, even while preparing for their matches.
*βWe have to coordinate everything,β* Monfils explained. *βWhen one of us is on court, the other is taking care of the baby. And when we both have matches on the same day, itβs even more complicated.β*
Monfils humorously recounted some of the logistical challenges they faced, including arranging babysitting help from family and friends and navigating tight schedules between matches and practice sessions. Despite the difficulties, Monfils said that being a father has brought a new perspective to his life and career.
*βItβs exhausting, but itβs also the best thing ever,β* Monfils said with a smile. *βI think having a child has made me appreciate the moments on court even more, because now I know Iβm playing for something bigger than myself.β* He also expressed admiration for Svitolina, who made a remarkable comeback to professional tennis after giving birth and reached the semifinals at Wimbledon 2023, just months after becoming a mother.
### **Elina Svitolinaβs Resilience and Support**
Monfils praised his wifeβs strength and determination, noting that she has been a source of inspiration for him, both as a player and a parent. Svitolina, who has spoken publicly about the challenges of returning to professional tennis after maternity leave, has continued to impress with her performances on the court, including her deep runs at major tournaments.
Monfils shared that they both try to support each other as much as possible, recognizing that their unique situation requires a great deal of teamwork and understanding. He added that Svitolina has been instrumental in helping him stay focused on his game, even amid the demands of fatherhood.
The couple has also been very intentional about keeping their personal life balanced with their professional careers.
Monfils mentioned that they try to spend as much quality time together as a family whenever their schedules allow, and they have made a concerted effort to ensure that Skaiβs well-being is always their top priority.
### **Monfils and Svitolinaβs Parenting Journey in Tennis**
Monfils also touched on how becoming a parent has changed his approach to the sport. He explained that while he is still highly competitive and motivated to achieve success on the tennis court, his priorities have shifted slightly.
*βNow, when I lose a match, it doesnβt feel as devastating as it used to,β* Monfils said. *βI just go home and spend time with my daughter, and everything feels better. She gives me perspective.β*
As for their future in tennis, Monfils and Svitolina have both expressed a desire to continue playing for as long as their bodies allow, though they acknowledge that parenting will always come first. Monfils noted that they are both still passionate about competing, but they are also mindful of the need to find a healthy balance between their careers and family life.
Monfils joked that Skai might even grow up to become a tennis player herself, given her early exposure to the sport. *βWho knows? Maybe one day sheβll be playing at Wimbledon too,β* he said with a grin.
### **Conclusion: Two Different Tales of Balance and Humor in Tennis**
Coco Gauffβs clarification of her ‘cheaters’ remark and Gael Monfilsβ discussion about balancing tennis with parenthood offer two very different but equally compelling narratives from the world of tennis.
Gauff, with her characteristic humor and maturity, deftly handled a potential controversy, turning it into a moment of levity. Meanwhile, Monfils gave fans a glimpse into the personal side of professional tennis, sharing the joys and challenges of managing a career while being a new parent.
Both stories highlight the multifaceted lives of tennis players, showing that beyond the competition and the headlines, these athletes are also navigating the complexities of life β whether itβs humorous misunderstandings or the profound responsibilities of family.
