Protesters Disrupt US Open Match: Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova Forced off Court
The US Open women’s semi-final match between Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova took an unexpected turn as protesters in the upper mezzanine disrupted the game, causing both players to be forced off the court. Chanting end fossil fuels, the demonstrators caught the attention of security personnel, who swiftly intervened.
The disruption occurred just as Gauff and Muchova had commenced the second set of their match. Security hurried to the stands while the players were directed to their chairs for safety. Reports suggest that some of the protesters were removed from the stands, but at least one individual refused to comply, leading to a continued delay.
Following instructions from the security team, both Gauff and Muchova were ultimately escorted away from the court. Gauff was heard expressing her feelings, remarking, They said they’re on the phone negotiating. Like this is a hostage situation, as she exited the court, according to The Guardian.
Fans quickly turned to social media to share news of the disruption. One spectator tweeted, Quick pause after the first game of the second set, as three folks are standing up and yelling in the upper deck in protest. Gauff had taken the first set by winning 6-4, making the interruption even more unforeseen.
