ESPN drew sharp criticism from tennis fans after choosing to air Coco Gauff's match instead of Novak Djokovic's during the Wimbledon tournament. The decision came as both matches began around the same time on June 29.
The broadcaster opted for Gauff's clash against Tamara Korpatsch over Djokovic's encounter with Wu Yibing. Djokovic's start was delayed after Jannik Sinner's match extended to five sets on Centre Court.
Gauff secured a straight-sets victory 6-2, 6-1 in 54 minutes. It marked her first grass-court win in two years and ended a three-match losing streak on the surface.
Fans voiced frustration on social media, with one writing, “ESPN you put on Coco Gauff over the GOAT?!?!” Another posted, “@ESPN why are you featuring Gauff now while Djokovic, a Wimbledon champion, is on court? BORING.”
Djokovic won the first set 6-4 but dropped the second 5-7. The match moved into a deciding third set.