Coco Gauff, the rising tennis star, shares her thoughts on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing her hope for peace and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Gauff, who was recently named to TIME magazine's 2024 Women of the Year list, emphasizes her opposition to violence against innocent people and fears that the conflict is escalating.
Coco Gauff, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, has spoken out about the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing her desire for peace and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. In an interview with TIME magazine, Gauff condemned the violence that has claimed over 1,200 lives and deplored the mass killing of innocent civilians.
Gauff's stance stems from her belief that violence is never the answer, and she vehemently opposes any harm inflicted upon innocent people from either side of the conflict. She highlights the disproportionate fatalities on one side and emphasizes her concern about the growing polarization over the issue.
"I don’t really support the mass violence going on to innocent people on both ends of the spectrum," Gauff said. "And there’s one side that’s getting killed at more drastically faster rates than the other side."
Gauff's objective is clear: she wants an end to the violence and a resolution that includes the release of Israeli hostages. She believes that peace must be achieved through dialogue and understanding rather than further violence.
"I want Hamas to release all Israeli hostages and wants to see a ceasefire, but she fears that neither side is hearing the other," the TIME article states.
Gauff's concern extends to the perception surrounding those who voice their opinions on the conflict. She fears that expressing opposition to the violence in Gaza could be misconstrued as antisemitism, an accusation she strongly refutes.
"I feel like it’s becoming more, if you don’t support what’s happening in Gaza, it makes you feel like you’re antisemitic," Gauff added. "I feel far from that."
Gauff's commitment to addressing this issue stems from her extensive knowledge and understanding of the complexities involved. She believes that her platform as a public figure gives her a responsibility to speak out against injustice and promote peace.
"I am not one to shy away from something that I feel informed about," she said. "And I feel pretty informed about this topic."
The WTA, the governing body of women's professional tennis, released a statement condemning the violence in Israel, expressing sympathy for Israeli athletes and all affected by the conflict. Gauff echoed these sentiments by posting a message on Instagram denouncing terrorism and extending condolences to the victims and their families.
Gauff's unwavering advocacy for peace demonstrates her character as an athlete and an individual. She recognizes the profound impact of violence on innocent lives and remains committed to raising her voice until a peaceful resolution is achieved.
