Controversy surrounds female tennis player calling opponent 'uncivilized' at the 2025 US Open

28/08/2025 19:56:00 PANDATV

A controversy broke out at the 2025 US Open when Jelena Ostapenko was accused of insulting her opponent Taylor Townsend after a surprising second-round defeat.

Ostapenko, known for her hot temper, caused a stir by calling Townsend "uneducated and classless" during a post-match confrontation, forcing her to deny charges of racism.

The match concluded with Townsend’s 2-0 victory over Ostapenko. After a frosty handshake, tensions escalated when Ostapenko criticized Townsend for not apologizing following a net-cord shot at a critical moment in the first set. Townsend revealed to ESPN that Ostapenko said, "You have no class, no education, and wait to see what happens when we meet outside the US." In reply, Townsend challenged, "I already beat her in Canada, outside the US, so let’s see what she has to say."

Jelena Ostapenko (in white dress) is no stranger to controversies

Images of the dispute quickly circulated, triggering a wave of criticism on social media. Ostapenko was accused by many of racism, compelling her to clarify on Instagram: "I have never been racist. I respect every nation and individual, no matter where they come from." She explained that Townsend’s behavior, such as not apologizing after the net-cord shot and warming up near the net, was "disrespectful" and "against tennis rules." Nevertheless, Townsend dismissed this explanation as "laughable" and asserted she did not expect an apology from her rival.

During the press conference, when asked if Ostapenko’s remarks implied racism, Townsend responded, "That’s a question you should direct to her. I don’t feel that way, but the stereotype that black people lack education exists. However, I don’t take it as a personal insult because it’s so far from the truth." Townsend emphasized her pride representing the black community and her dedication to professionalism both on and off the court.

The controversy started when the on-court microphone caught Townsend repeatedly telling Ostapenko to "accept defeat." The New York crowd booed Ostapenko, while Townsend rallied the audience for another 30 seconds. Ostapenko, a former Roland Garros champion, is accustomed to disputes. Last year, she refused to shake hands with Victoria Azarenka, who had criticized the umpire as "blind" and was fined $10,000 for misconduct at Wimbledon 2022. Earlier, she called Ajla Tomljanovic "the worst player on tour" after another controversy.

Regarding Townsend, she insisted she does not tolerate disrespect: "I always conduct myself properly and expect to be treated with equal respect. If she has an issue, say it to my face, and we can resolve it." She even joked that this incident would make great TikTok content for her.

Comment (0)