The second-round clash between Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko at the U.S. Open ended not just with a scoreline, but with controversy. After Townsend’s straight-sets victory, Ostapenko confronted her at the net, accusing her of poor sportsmanship and allegedly saying she had “no class” and “no education.” The exchange sparked widespread reaction across the tennis world, with many questioning the intent and tone of Ostapenko’s remarks.
Coco Gauff speaks out
Coco Gauff, one of Townsend’s closest peers on tour, addressed the situation with clarity and compassion. “I know what was said after the match. I think it was a heat of the moment thing. I think Jelena was probably feeling emotions after she lost. It shouldn’t have been said, regardless of how you’re feeling,” Gauff said after her own match at the tournament. Her words reflected both empathy for the emotional intensity of competition and a firm stance against personal attacks.
Defending a friend’s character
Gauff didn’t stop at addressing the incident—she made it personal. “Knowing Taylor personally, she’s the opposite of that. She’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Whenever I’ve had a tough moment on court she’s texting me checking in on how I am.” Her defense of Townsend painted a picture of a supportive, kind-hearted athlete whose reputation should not be defined by one post-match confrontation.
More than a player
Gauff urged fans and media to look beyond the headlines. “I hate to see that maybe this is some of the first people hearing who Taylor Townsend is. I don’t want that to be the main focus of who she is. She’s a lot more than that. She’s a mom. She’s a great friend. A talented tennis player. And a good person.” Her words served as a reminder that athletes are multifaceted individuals, and that one moment should not overshadow years of dedication and character.
A call for deeper understanding
As the tournament continues, Gauff hopes that the spotlight on Townsend will shift toward her achievements and her story. “At the end of this tournament I hope people will do a deep dive into her and get to know her more than what was said in the previous match.” In a sport often defined by rivalries and drama, Gauff’s response stood out for its grace and sincerity—an appeal to see the full person behind the player.
Gauff at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently ranked no.
3, Gauff owns an overall 37-12 record in 2025. Gauff is currently having a run at the U.S. Open where she overcame the world no.79 Ajla Tomljanovic 6-4 6-7(2) 7-5 and the world no.49 Donna Vekic 7-6(5) 6-2.Cori Gauff will come up against the world no.33 Magdalena Frech in the 3rd round. Their actual record is 2-0 for Gauff.
Gauff has won 2 titles in 2025 in Australia and French Open. The American got to the final in Madrid (Mutua Madrid Open) and in Rome (Internazionali BNL d’Italia).
Gauff won 11 titles in her career: 7 on hard courts, 2 on clay courts and 2 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
Jelena Ostapenko in 2025
Currently the world no.26, Jelena played her last match on the 27th of August when she was overcome by world no.139 Taylor Townsend 7-5 6-1 in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).
During this season the Latvian has achieved an overall 18-17 win-loss record. Ostapenko conquered 1 title in Stuttgart. Ostapenko reached the final in Doha.
Cori Gauff and Jelena Ostapenko faced off 3 times. Their actual record is 2-1 for Gauff.