US Open: Ostapenko apologises for ‘no class, no education’ remark towards Townsend

New Delhi- Jelena Ostapenko has apologised for her controversial comments aimed at Taylor Townsend during a heated exchange at the US Open.

The Latvian star had accused Townsend of having “no education and no class” following her 7-5, 6-1 defeat to the American in the second round at Flushing Meadows. The tension stemmed from a net cord that went in Townsend’s favour, after which Ostapenko complained that her opponent did not apologise. Their post-match handshake was terse, and the disagreement continued in a courtside argument.

Townsend later told reporters, “She said I have no education, no class, and to see what happens if we play outside the US.”

Ostapenko addressed the controversy on Instagram, writing: “I want to apologise for some of the things I said during my second-round singles match. English is not my first language, and when I said ‘education’ I was referring only to tennis etiquette. I understand, however, how my words may have offended many beyond the tennis court. I am learning and growing as a player and a person. Goodbye New York, and I look forward to returning next year.”

Townsend, who later advanced in doubles with partner Katerina Siniakova, said she had not heard from Ostapenko personally but welcomed the public apology. “That’s nice she apologised. At the end of the day, it’s a learning lesson for her. I’m still playing, still focused on my goals. I can’t get distracted by outside noise. My job is to keep the main thing the main thing, which is growing as a player and playing my best tennis.”

With inputs from IANS