After the match, the world number two wrote to the camera, “Rest in peace TikTok,” referring to the app’s discontinuation in the United States.
Shortly after reaching the Australian Open quarterfinals, Coco Gauff wrote, “Rest in peace TikTok USA” and turned the camera on her as the popular app used by 170 million Americans stopped working in the United States. I drew a pattern of heartbreak on the lens.
TikTok has disappeared from Apple and Google’s app stores ahead of a law mandating the closure of social media platforms that takes effect on Sunday.
The former US Open champion, who has more than 750,000 followers on TikTok, said in a press conference that he will probably have more time to pursue other interests since he cannot access the app on his phone in Melbourne.
“Honestly, I thought I could get away with it since I’m in Australia,” said Gauff, who defeated Belinda Bencic 5-7, 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday. “I think it has something to do with my number. I don’t know. I’ll have to look into some things.”
“I hope it comes back. It’s really sad. I love TikTok. It’s like an escape. Honestly, I do it before games.
“I think it’s probably going to force me to read more and be a more productive person. Maybe that’s a blessing in disguise.”
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will “most likely” give TikTok a 90-day reprieve from the ban after he takes office on Monday, and Gauff has a feeling TikTok will return in some form. he said.
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, who lives in Miami and is a huge TikTok fan, also said she hopes for a quick resolution.
The Belarusian has more than 500,000 followers on TikTok, and after winning her season opener a week ago, she reenacted one of her viral dance videos with fans at Rod Laver Arena. .
“This is not something we can control and I hope they understand that because I love TikTok,” she said.
