Jessica Pegula flipped the script in an all-American Australian Open quarterfinal, beating Amanda Anisimova 6-2, 7-6 (1) in 1 hour and 35 minutes. However, attention turned when Anisimova explained how she avoided a Coco Gauff–style misstep after the defeat amid rising privacy concerns in Melbourne.

At the post-match press conference, Amanda Anisimova was asked about Coco Gauff and player privacy. The discussion focused on behind-the-scenes cameras and how Anisimova handled defeat. She explained that players are aware they are often being filmed.

“You kind of know after a few days or 4 or 5 days that obviously you see on the internet you walking around,” Anisimova said she understood the lack of privacy deep into the tournament.

She then explained how she reacted after her loss. “I knew that was there, so I just kept my head down and went to the locker room.” She acknowledged that public moments come with the territory.

Anisimova also reflected on Coco Gauff’s situation. “There are good moments, obviously, that people see, and that’s fun. When you lose, there are probably not-so-good moments. I think the fact that the video of Coco that was posted is tough because she didn’t have a say in that.” She added, “But I think this deep down into the tournament I knew I didn’t have much privacy, so I just went to the locker room. I knew I was able to just be there.”

The situation escalated when Elina Svitolina handed Coco Gauff one of the toughest losses of her career. The Ukrainian defeated the American in just 59 minutes in their Australian Open quarterfinal. The one-sided result left Gauff visibly frustrated.

After leaving the court, Gauff smashed her racket in the tunnel. The moment was caught on camera and broadcast on television. The footage quickly spread and became a major talking point during the tournament.

At her post-match press conference, Gauff was asked about the video. She explained that she had tried to stay out of sight. “I tried to go somewhere where there are no cameras. I kind of feel like I have a thing with the broadcast.”

She added that her efforts did not work. “I tried to go somewhere where they wouldn’t broadcast, but obviously, they did.” Her comments highlighted her frustration with the lack of privacy.

And as the tournament progressed, other WTA players also voiced their opinions as privecy issue has now become a wider debate at the Australian Open.

Iga Swiatek also addresses player privacy concerns at the Australian Open

Along with Coco Gauff and Amanda Anisimova, Iga Swiatek also exited the Australian Open. She lost 7-5, 6-1 to Elena Rybakina in the quarterfinals. The defeat ended Swiatek’s career Grand Slam hopes.

Swiatek, the reigning Wimbledon champion, struggled throughout the tournament. Her serve lacked consistency. She won fewer service games than any other quarterfinalist and was broken the most times, alongside Coco Gauff.

However, after the match, attention shifted away from tennis. Swiatek was asked about backstage cameras and player privacy. Her response was direct and emotional, reflecting growing frustration among players.

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“The question is, are we tennis players? Or are we animals in the zoo? Where they are observed even when they’re pooping.” She quickly clarified her tone. “Ok, that was exaggerating, obviously, but it would be nice to have some privacy.”

She continued by stressing the need for personal space. “It would be nice also to have your own process and not always be observed.” Swiatek made it clear that constant monitoring affects players after losses.

Swiatek then gave examples from different tournaments. She explained that at some venues, avoiding cameras or onlookers is impossible. She questioned whether that level of access is appropriate.

“I don’t think it should be like that because we are tennis players,” she said. “We’re meant to be watched on court and in the press. That’s our job.”

She also addressed viral moments away from the competition. “It’s not our job to be a meme when you forget your accreditation. It’s funny for sure. People have something to talk about. For us, I don’t think it’s necessary.”

When asked if she raised the issue with tournament officials, Swiatek gave a blunt reply. “What’s the point?” 

And as the AO continues, player privacy remains a growing concern.