US Edition
Why the Absence of a Common Act of Tennis Sportsmanship Led to Heated on-Court Argument at the US Open
The dispute began over a net-cord shot and escalated with Ostapenko calling Townsend "no class" and "no education," leading to accusations of racism and crowd backlash.
- On Wednesday, American tennis player Taylor Townsend beat Latvian tennis player Jelena Ostapenko 7-5, 6-1, then a post-match handshake on Court 11, Flushing Meadows escalated into a heated confrontation.
- After an on-court dispute over a net-cord shot, tension rose when Taylor Townsend declined to apologise and Jelena Ostapenko told Townsend she had 'no class' and 'no education', Townsend said.
- Online critics quickly responded after the courtside spat, many accused Jelena Ostapenko of racism in social media messages while Taylor Townsend expressed pride as a Black woman and highlighted the hurtful 'not educated' stigma.
- The episode prompted debate over whether disciplinary action is warranted, as Jelena Ostapenko denied racism accusations on Instagram and Taylor Townsend advanced to face No. 5-ranked Mirra Andreeva on Friday.
- In a broader career context, Townsend's recent rise to WTA doubles No.1 and first grand-slam third round since 2023 contrasts with Ostapenko's history of on-court outbursts, heightening reputational stakes.
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93 Articles
93 Articles
The match between Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko is overshadowed by an outrage of the Lettin. Afterwards, she is confronted with serious accusations – and reacts.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources93
Leaning Left19Leaning Right10Center13Last UpdatedBias Distribution45% Left
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources lean Left
45% Left
L 45%
C 31%
R 24%
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