NEW YORK: Jelena Ostapenko apologised for the phrases she utilized in a tense altercation with American Taylor Townsend on the US Open that led to backlash, saying on Saturday that English shouldn’t be her native language.
The controversy erupted after Townsend, who’s Black, defeated 2017 French Open champion Ostapenko 7-5 6-1 in a tricky second-round match on Wednesday, earlier than being drawn right into a heated change on the internet following their handshake.
Townsend later revealed a part of the change throughout her on-court interview, saying Ostapenko accused her of getting “no class” and “no schooling”. She added in a press convention that Ostapenko must reply questions on whether or not there have been “racial undertones” within the remarks.
Ostapenko wrote on Instagram that her frustration stemmed from Townsend’s refusal to apologise for benefiting from a internet twine — when the American’s shot clipped the online and stayed in play — and accused her of being disrespectful.
Historically, gamers increase their racket in apology after successful such some extent, following long-standing tennis etiquette.
The conflict prompted four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka to weigh in, saying that Ostapenko’s selection of phrases have been the worst issues one might say when criticising a Black participant.
“I need to apologise for among the issues I stated throughout my second-round singles match,” Ostapenko stated on Saturday.
“English shouldn’t be my native language, so once I stated schooling, I used to be solely talking about what I imagine to be tennis etiquette, however I perceive how the phrases I used might have offended many individuals past the tennis courtroom.
“I recognize the help as I proceed to study and develop as an individual and a participant.”
Townsend later stated she accepted the apology.
“That’s wonderful. That’s cool,” she stated. “On the finish of the day, I feel it’s a lesson for her … you’ll be able to’t push your expectations on different individuals. That’s what occurred.
“She anticipated me to react a sure manner, and I didn’t, and it infuriated her, which led her to say issues which are hurtful, belligerent, offensive — not solely to me however to the game and an entire tradition of individuals I attempt to symbolize one of the best I can.”
American Coco Gauff praised Townsend, saying she was one of many nicest individuals she knew.
Townsend, who will face Barbora Krejcikova within the fourth spherical, stated the episode had launched her to many new followers.
“There are quite a lot of acquainted faces right here, however there are additionally individuals who perhaps didn’t know who I used to be earlier than,” she stated.
“Now they’re seeing me, after which going again, studying about my journey, and discovering out how I obtained right here. I feel that’s tremendous cool.”
