Tennis player Jelena Ostapenko has refuted accusations of using discriminatory language during a dispute with Taylor Townsend at the US Open. Ostapenko, aged 28, expressed her frustration after losing 7-5 6-1 to Townsend, who claimed she felt threatened during their post-match handshake.
Witnesses observed Ostapenko gesturing aggressively towards Townsend, escalating tensions as she put away her racket. Townsend remarked, “You need to learn how to handle defeat gracefully,” further fueling the confrontation.
The heated exchange between the two players, not audible on the umpire’s microphone, prompted boos from spectators at Flushing Meadows. Townsend walked off, gesturing to the crowd, while Ostapenko faced jeers.
In a subsequent TV interview, Townsend alleged that Ostapenko had insulted her. “Competition can evoke strong emotions. Some individuals resort to negative remarks when they lose,” the 29-year-old stated.
According to Townsend, Ostapenko criticized her for lacking class and education, hinting at future consequences outside the US. Townsend alluded to her victories over Ostapenko in Canada and New York as a rebuttal.
Speculation arose among viewers that Ostapenko, who did not attend a post-match press conference, had made racially charged comments. Ostapenko vehemently denied these allegations in a statement on Instagram, emphasizing her respect for people of all nationalities.
Regarding the incident, Ostapenko emphasized the importance of adhering to tennis etiquette and criticized the disrespectful behavior displayed during the match. She expressed disappointment at the lack of support she receives as a player from a small country.
Townsend refrained from labeling Ostapenko’s actions as racist. When questioned about racial undertones in Ostapenko’s remarks, Townsend maintained that she focused on managing her own reaction to the situation.
Townsend affirmed her pride in representing herself and her community as a black woman, striving to be a positive role model both on and off the court. She highlighted the misconceptions surrounding education and class within the black community.
Both players provided contrasting perspectives on the altercation, with Ostapenko denying any racial intent and Townsend focusing on her personal response to the situation.