In a surprising and bold appearance on Australia’s popular morning show Sunrise, tennis star Alex de Minaur stepped far beyond the baseline to address one of the nation’s most divisive political debates. The world No. 6 player, fresh from a demanding season and amid ongoing discussions about national identity and security, used the platform to voice strong support for Senator Pauline Hanson’s long-standing campaign against the burqa. His comments have ignited widespread debate, drawing both praise and criticism across the country.
De Minaur, known for his quiet demeanor and focus on tennis, appeared composed yet passionate during the interview. He reiterated that Pauline Hanson has consistently advocated for a ban on the burqa for years, describing the garment not merely as cultural attire but as “a symbol of extremism, the oppression of women, and a potential security threat.” He emphasized that his stance was rooted in concerns for women’s rights and public safety rather than any form of prejudice.
“I respect Pauline Hanson’s courage in standing up for what she believes protects Australian values and security,” de Minaur stated. “She has been consistent on this issue since well before her recent protest in Parliament. The burqa isn’t just clothing—it’s a barrier that can hide identity in public spaces and, in some contexts, enforces control over women. We need honest discussions about these things without being shut down by accusations.”
The tennis ace did not stop at defending Hanson’s policy position. He launched a pointed critique at what he called “extremist elements both inside and outside Parliament” who have branded Hanson as “racist.” According to de Minaur, these critics are exploiting the label to silence debate and manipulate major parties.
“Those who throw around ‘racist’ as a weapon are dragging the weak Labor Party and the ineffective Liberal factions into campaigns against her,” he said. “It’s a tactic to avoid real conversation. Pauline is asking tough questions about integration, women’s rights, and national security—questions many Australians share but are afraid to voice. Labeling her shuts down democracy, not extremism.”
The interview took an even sharper turn when de Minaur directly addressed the Albanese government. In a moment that has since gone viral, he accused the administration of prioritizing political correctness over practical concerns for everyday Australians.
“The current government under Anthony Albanese seems more interested in appeasing certain groups than protecting the freedoms and safety of all citizens,” de Minaur declared. “We see policies that bend over backward on identity issues while ignoring the real struggles of families, women facing oppression in some communities, and the security risks we all face. It’s time for leadership that puts Australia first—not ideology.”
He concluded his segment with a stirring call to action: “Australians deserve open debate, not censorship. Pauline Hanson may be blunt, but she’s asking the questions we need answered. If supporting women’s rights and national security makes me controversial, then so be it. I’m proud to stand with common sense.”
Almost immediately after the broadcast, de Minaur released a follow-up public statement on his social media channels, amplifying his message and targeting the government more explicitly.
“Today on Sunrise, I spoke from the heart because this matters to me as an Australian who loves this country,” the statement read. “Pauline Hanson has faced relentless attacks for highlighting issues that affect us all—oppression disguised as culture, security gaps that could be exploited, and the silencing of free speech. The Albanese government has failed to lead on these fronts, choosing division over unity. They label patriots as extremists while ignoring the voices of ordinary people. Enough is enough. Australia needs strength, not surrender. I stand with those who defend our values, our women, and our future.
Let’s have the courage to say what needs to be said.”
The statement received an outpouring of support from segments of the Australian public. Within hours, it garnered thousands of likes, shares, and comments praising de Minaur for his “bravery” and “honesty.” Many fans and everyday citizens echoed his sentiments, with messages like “Finally, someone with a platform speaks truth” and “As a woman, thank you for highlighting oppression.” Supporters of One Nation and conservative voices flooded social media with appreciation, viewing his intervention as a boost to Hanson’s credibility amid her recent controversies, including her repeated burqa protests in Parliament.
The backlash, however, was swift and fierce. Critics accused de Minaur of wading into divisive politics without full understanding, potentially alienating diverse fan bases. Some tennis commentators expressed concern that his comments could overshadow his athletic achievements and invite unnecessary scrutiny during the upcoming season. Progressive groups and Muslim community leaders condemned the remarks as inflammatory, arguing that equating the burqa with extremism perpetuates stereotypes and ignores the rights of women who choose to wear it.
De Minaur’s unexpected foray into politics comes at a pivotal time. The tennis world has long admired him for his humility, work ethic, and representation of multicultural Australia—born to an Argentine father and Spanish mother, he has embodied the nation’s immigrant success story. Yet recent events, including disinformation campaigns falsely attributing political quotes to him, appear to have pushed the usually apolitical star to respond publicly.
Analysts suggest his appearance may reflect growing frustration among some high-profile Australians with what they perceive as overreach by progressive policies. By aligning with Hanson’s views—even partially—de Minaur has tapped into a vein of public sentiment that polls show exists on issues of immigration, security, and cultural integration.
Pauline Hanson herself responded positively on social media, thanking de Minaur for his “principled stand” and noting that “even our sporting heroes see the truth.” Her One Nation party amplified the clip, framing it as evidence of broader support beyond traditional political circles.
As the dust settles, de Minaur’s Sunrise interview and subsequent statement mark a rare moment when a top athlete has openly engaged in national political discourse. Whether this galvanizes a movement or sparks division remains to be seen. What is clear is that Alex de Minaur has reminded Australians that silence is not always golden—sometimes, speaking out, even on uncomfortable topics, is what true leadership demands.
In a nation grappling with identity in a changing world, de Minaur’s words have added fuel to an already heated debate. Love him or disagree with him, few can deny the impact of a global sports star stepping up to defend what he believes is right for his country.
