Coco Gauff's Semifinal Match Halted By Climate Protesters
Coco Gauff was facing Karlina Muchova in the semifinals of the U.S. Open Thursday night when play was suspended during the second set due to an "environmental protest."
Gauff was up 6-4, 1-0 when several in attendance stood up and began shouting something. Those in attendance said it was some kind of climate protest. After 10 minutes, the players left the court while it was dealt with.
Video is below:
Coco Gauff’s US Open semi-final against Karolina Muchova halted by climate change protestors in the stands. #usopen pic.twitter.com/qded3qEYBN
— Matt Majendie (@mattmajendie) September 8, 2023
The three protesters were chanting "end fossil fuels." Two were removed by police, while one remained in his place because he had glued himself to the ground. Yeah, that's a thing that actually happened. Police worked to remove the final protester.
Protestor being cuffed by police, at least a dozen officers in attendance now. Three trying to free his glued feet. pic.twitter.com/DbZsXoVchS
— Matt Majendie (@mattmajendie) September 8, 2023
Climate activist glued his feet to the floor at US Open after interrupting the match. #USOpen pic.twitter.com/jsv8TCGzd2
— Jack Ciapciak (@jackciapciak) September 8, 2023
Look, no matter your stance on climate change, I'm not sure annoying everyone in attendance and at home just trying to watch a tennis match is the most effective way to go about fostering change. This all just seems pretty silly.