'Want To Learn And Grow': Jelena Ostapenko Issues Apology After US Open Remarks Spark Racism Row

Last Updated:August 31, 2025, 08:31 IST

Jelena Ostapenko apologized on Instagram for remarks about Taylor Townsend at the US Open after backlash over alleged racism.

Jelena Ostapenko (AP)

After facing fiery backlash, Jelena Ostapenko publicly apologised on Saturday for her heated remarks towards Taylor Townsend at the US Open, after her post-match tirade drew accusations of racism earlier in the week.

The Latvian, a former French Open champion, crashed out of the tournament in the second round on Wednesday after losing to American Taylor Townsend.

In frustration, Ostapenko criticised her opponent during an on-court rant, saying Townsend had “no education" and “no class."

The remarks triggered an immediate backlash on social media, with many accusing Ostapenko of using racially coded language against the African American player.

Ostapenko, known for her fiery temperament on court, has previously drawn criticism for her outspoken reactions after defeats.

Ostapenko Issues Instagram Apology

The Latvian initially issued a statement denying that her comments had been racist, but following intense scrutiny, on Saturday, she acknowledged the offence caused.

“I wanted to apologize for some of the things I said during my second-round singles match," Ostapenko wrote in a post on Instagram.

“English is not my native language, so when I said education, I was speaking about what I believe was tennis etiquette, but I understand how the words I used could have offended many people beyond the court.

I appreciate the support as I continue to learn and grow as a person and a tennis player."

Townsend Responds

Townsend, who advanced to the third round after her win over Ostapenko, said she did not interpret the comments as racist, though she recognised why others were upset.

“I didn’t take it in that way," Townsend explained. “But also, you know, that has been a stigma in our community of being not educated and all of the things, when it’s the furthest thing from the truth.

I don’t really take that personally, because I know that it’s so far from the truth and so far from anything."

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

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First Published:

August 31, 2025, 08:31 IST

News sports 'Want To Learn And Grow': Jelena Ostapenko Issues Apology After US Open Remarks Spark Racism Row

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