Jelena Ostapenko has apologized for remarks she made during a tense confrontation with American player Taylor Townsend at the U.S. Open, an incident that drew widespread criticism.
The altercation occurred after Townsend defeated the 2017 French Open champion 7-5, 6-1 in the second round on Wednesday. Following the match, the two players exchanged words at the net, with Townsend later telling reporters that Ostapenko accused her of having “no class” and “no education.”
Townsend, who is Black, suggested the remarks could carry racial undertones. The controversy prompted responses across the tennis world, including from four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, who described Ostapenko’s words as particularly harmful when directed at a Black player.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Ostapenko expressed regret, saying her comments had been misunderstood.
“I want to apologize for some of the things I said during my second-round singles match,” she wrote. “English is not my first language, and when I used the word ‘education,’ I meant tennis etiquette. But I understand how my choice of words may have offended many people beyond the court.”
She explained that her frustration came after Townsend won a point from a net cord without offering the customary gesture of raising her racket in apology — a tradition many players follow. Ostapenko felt this showed a lack of respect, though she admitted her reaction went too far.
Townsend, responding to the apology, said she was willing to move forward but also viewed the moment as a learning experience.
“At the end of the day, it’s a lesson for her,” Townsend said. “You can’t put your expectations on other people. She expected me to react in a certain way, and when I didn’t, it upset her. That led to comments that were hurtful, offensive, and bigger than just me — they impacted the sport and the community I represent.”
Coco Gauff also defended her fellow American, calling Townsend “one of the nicest people” she knows.
Townsend added that the incident has unexpectedly drawn new attention to her career.
“Some people who didn’t know me before are now learning my story and my journey,” she said. “I think that’s really cool.”