Alizé Cornet dons rainbow for US Open Pride Day, doesn’t realize she’s a gay icon – Tennis Magazine

But in particular, Cornet’s LGBTQ+ allyship is a no-brainer given the camp persona she brings to the sport she plays, a sport that is consumed in considerable numbers by gay and queer men. Though her flair for the dramatics has occasionally rubbed fans the wrong way over her nearly two decades on tour, the former world No. 11 has become a clear cult figure with a community who traditionally identify with a strong female lead.

Cornet is, quite frankly, the face that launched 1000 GIFs: the internet is full of video clips chronicling her expressive reactions and over-the-top antics, made by those who affectionately call her “Dramalizé.”

All of this, it turns out, was a surprise to Cornet—albeit a pleasant one.

“For me, this wristband is just a symbol of being open-minded and loving each other,” she said. “I don’t know if I have a lot of gay fans or something, but I just want to show people that I love humanity and that’s it. This wristband was here for that, and I really tried to give my best on the court and to the crowd that was supporting me: wherever they come from and whoever they are. Sport is here to unite people.”

Cornet’s decision to stand with the LGBTQ+ community will not only win her new fans but also strengthen bonds she didn’t know she had—all manifesting into support she can channel into more unforgettable performances as her US Open journey continue.