The US Open semifinals delivered drama on the court, but off it, a social media storm erupted involving former First Lady Michelle Obama. After watching Thursday night's matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Obama took to X to shower praise on Coco Gauff, yet her message conspicuously omitted another American star, Jessica Pegula.
Pegula had fallen earlier in the evening to defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets, a tough loss for the home favorite. Gauff then faced Elena Rybakina in a battle that went the distance, with the Kazakh star ultimately prevailing in three sets to book her spot in the final. The night was a mixed bag for American tennis fans, but Obama's reaction singled out only Gauff.
“Big hugs to @CocoGauff !!! She’s a joy to watch,” Obama wrote. “Always proud. Go USA Tennis!” The tweet was warm and supportive, but it raised eyebrows for what it didn't say—no mention of Pegula's run or her semifinal effort.
Fans were quick to call out the apparent snub. “Two US women lost in the US Open semis last night, Jess Pegula and Coco Gauff. Michelle Obama sends a message to Gauff but not Pegula?” one user pointed out. Another added, “Pegula also played today….no commiserations to her, No wishes to Elena and no mention of Ben and Tiafoe who are playing tomorrow.”
The criticism grew louder, with some questioning whether Pegula was being overlooked. “Is Jessica Pegula not American? How odd is this tweet,” one commenter wrote. Another said, “Why didn’t Michelle Obama give ‘big hugs’ to Jessica Pegula like Coco Gauff. She was literally present for the match. I can’t make this up.”
Obama hasn't responded to the backlash, and she's under no obligation to do so. But the incident has sparked a broader conversation about recognition and favoritism in sports fandom. It's not the first time a public figure has faced scrutiny for selective praise, and it likely won't be the last. The debate echoes recent controversies like the backlash over LeBron and Jeter's gambling ads and the criticism of Malika Andrews' US Open commentary.
For Pegula, the loss was undoubtedly disappointing, but her journey to the semifinals was a career highlight. She'll have more chances to shine on the big stage. Meanwhile, Gauff's defeat also stung, but she's young and already a Grand Slam champion. Both players represent the bright future of American tennis, and fans hope they'll get the recognition they deserve.
As for Obama, she's no stranger to the spotlight, but this time it's for an omission rather than an action. Whether she'll address the criticism remains to be seen. The US Open final on Saturday will feature Rybakina and Sabalenka, and it's unclear if Obama will attend. Either way, the conversation about her tweet isn't fading quickly.
In the end, this episode highlights how every word—or silence—from a public figure can be magnified. For now, Pegula's fans are rallying behind her, and the tennis world moves on to the championship match.
