The second-round match between Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko at the U.S. Open ended with more than just a scoreline. After Townsend’s straight-sets victory, Ostapenko confronted her at the net, reportedly accusing her of having “no class” and “no education.” The remarks, made in a heated moment, quickly drew criticism from fans, commentators, and fellow players.
Osaka’s powerful response
Naomi Osaka, a two-time U.S. Open champion, addressed the controversy with clarity and conviction. “I think obviously it’s one of the worst things you can say to a Black tennis player in a majority White sport,” she told reporters. Her words reflected the deeper implications of Ostapenko’s comments, especially in a sport where racial representation has long been a sensitive issue.
Standing up for Townsend
Osaka didn’t hesitate to defend Townsend’s character and achievements. “I know Taylor and I know how hard she’s worked and I know how smart she is, so she’s the furthest thing from uneducated or anything like that,” she said. Townsend, a mother and a respected figure on the tour, has long been admired for her resilience and talent. Osaka’s support highlighted the importance of standing by fellow athletes in moments of public scrutiny.
A call for accountability
While acknowledging the emotional nature of competition, Osaka made it clear that certain lines should never be crossed. “I know she’s never going to say that ever again in her life. But, yeah, I mean, it was just terrible. Like, that’s just really bad.” Her comments underscored the need for accountability and awareness, especially when words carry the weight of history and identity.
Moving forward with respect
As the tournament continues, the focus shifts to how players and fans respond to moments like these. Osaka’s remarks serve as a reminder that tennis is not just about skill and strategy—it’s also about respect, empathy, and the responsibility to uplift one another. For Townsend, the support from peers like Osaka reinforces her place in the sport, not just as a competitor, but as a person worthy of dignity and recognition.
Jelena Ostapenko in 2025
Currently the world no.26, the Latvian played her last match on the 27th of August when she capitulated to world no.139 Taylor Townsend 7-5 6-1
in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).At the moment, during this season Ostapenko has a 18-17 win-loss record. Jelena clinched 1 title in Stuttgart. The Latvian was the runner-up in Doha.
Osaka at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.24, the Japanese has managed to achieve a 29-12 match record in 2025. Naomi is currently competing at the U.S. Open where she ousted the world no.106 Greetje Minnen 6-3 6-4 and the world no.47 Hailey Baptiste 6-3 6-1.
Naomi Osaka will square off with the world no.18 Darya Kasatkina in the 3rd round. Their current head to head is 2-0 for Osaka.
Naomi has won 1 title in 2025 in the Malo. Osaka was the finalist in Auckland (ASB Classic) and in Montreal (Omnium Banque Nationale).
Naomi won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
Jelena Ostapenko and Naomi Osaka fought against each other 3 times. Their record is 3-0 for Osaka.