In a stunning and highly anticipated appearance on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program on February 12, 2026, Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur delivered one of the most politically charged interviews of his career. Known for his calm demeanor on court and reluctance to engage in controversy off it, de Minaur surprised millions of viewers by launching a robust defense of controversial One Nation leader Pauline Hanson while launching a direct attack on the Albanese government. The interview has since ignited widespread debate across Australia, drawing both fervent praise and sharp criticism.

During the segment, host Natalie Barr asked de Minaur about recent political tensions surrounding immigration, cultural symbols, and freedom of speech. De Minaur did not hesitate. He reiterated that Pauline Hanson has long advocated for a nationwide ban on the burqa, describing it as “a symbol of extremism, the oppression of women, and a potential security threat in public spaces.” He argued that Hanson’s position has been consistently misrepresented by critics who refuse to engage with the substance of her concerns.

“Pauline Hanson has been saying this for years,” de Minaur stated firmly. “She’s not attacking individuals; she’s questioning a garment that, in many parts of the world, is linked to control over women and even extremism. We should be able to have that conversation openly in Australia without being shouted down.”

De Minaur then turned his attention to what he called “extremist elements both inside and outside Parliament” who have branded Hanson a racist. He accused these groups of manipulating “a weak Labor Party and other ineffective Liberal factions” to orchestrate sustained campaigns aimed at silencing her. He described the tactic as “classic political bullying dressed up as moral superiority,” adding that it undermines genuine debate on national security and cultural integration.

The most explosive moment came when de Minaur issued a direct public statement targeting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his government. Looking straight into the camera, he declared:

“Enough is enough. The Albanese government has spent years lecturing Australians about unity and tolerance while turning a blind eye to real issues of integration, security, and women’s rights. They attack anyone who dares question their policies, label them divisive, and then wonder why trust in politics is at rock bottom. Pauline Hanson may be blunt, but at least she says what many Australians are thinking. It’s time for leadership that listens to the people instead of lecturing them. Australia deserves better than this weak, out-of-touch government.”

The studio fell silent for a moment. Co-host Matt Shirvington appeared visibly taken aback, while Barr quickly moved to clarify that the views expressed were de Minaur’s own. Yet the impact was immediate. Within minutes, clips of the statement flooded social media. Hashtags such as #DeMinaurSpeaks, #StandWithHanson, and #AlbaneseOut trended across Australia. Supporters praised de Minaur for “finally saying what everyone’s been thinking,” with many calling him a “real Aussie legend” who isn’t afraid to speak his mind.

Public reaction was overwhelmingly positive in conservative and outer-suburban circles. Thousands of messages poured in from everyday Australians who felt validated by de Minaur’s words. Prominent commentators on Sky News and various talkback radio stations hailed the tennis star for using his platform to address issues they claim mainstream media and politicians avoid. One veteran political analyst described the interview as “a cultural earthquake,” suggesting it could embolden other high-profile Australians to speak more freely on divisive topics.

Not everyone was pleased. Progressive voices and some within the tennis community expressed disappointment and concern. Critics argued that de Minaur, as a public figure with a massive following, was lending legitimacy to Hanson’s often polarizing rhetoric. Several sports journalists questioned whether a tennis player should be wading so deeply into political waters, warning that such statements could alienate fans and sponsors. On social media, opponents accused him of “dog-whistling” and suggested his comments risked inflaming community tensions rather than fostering constructive dialogue.

The Albanese government has not yet issued a formal response, though sources close to the Prime Minister’s office indicated that ministers view de Minaur’s remarks as “unhelpful and misinformed.” A spokesperson for the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to multiculturalism, women’s rights, and national security, stating that “Australia is a successful multicultural nation precisely because we reject division and fear-mongering.”

Pauline Hanson, however, was quick to welcome de Minaur’s support. In a statement released shortly after the broadcast, she said:

“I’ve always admired Alex de Minaur for his grit and determination on the court. To hear him speak so honestly about the issues facing our country means a great deal. Australians are tired of being told what to think. Thank you, Alex, for standing up for free speech and common sense.”

De Minaur’s decision to speak out so forcefully marks a significant departure from his usual public persona. Until now, the 27-year-old world No. 9 has largely avoided politics, focusing instead on his tennis career, his family, and charitable work. Friends and colleagues close to him say the interview was not planned as a political ambush but rather a genuine expression of long-held personal views that he felt compelled to share after months of watching what he perceives as growing political cowardice in Canberra.

The timing could not be more significant. With federal elections looming in 2025–2026 and ongoing debates over immigration, cost-of-living pressures, and cultural identity, de Minaur’s intervention has injected fresh energy into the national conversation. Some political strategists believe his high approval rating among everyday Australians—particularly younger men and regional voters—could amplify conservative messaging in ways traditional politicians struggle to achieve.

On the tennis front, de Minaur is currently preparing for the upcoming hard-court season, including the Australian Open. His performance on court has remained unaffected so far, with insiders noting that he appears focused and determined to channel any external noise into positive energy. Whether the political spotlight will follow him onto the court remains to be seen, but for now, the Sunrise interview has firmly established Alex de Minaur as more than just a world-class athlete—he is now a voice that cannot be ignored.

As Australia continues to grapple with its identity in an increasingly polarized world, de Minaur’s bold stand has reminded the nation that even sporting heroes can step into the political arena. Love him or loathe him, few can deny that his words have struck a chord—and the conversation they have sparked is far from over.