Naomi Osaka condemns Jelena Ostapenko's remarks at US Open

Osaka Denounces Ostapenko's Remarks

Former world number one Naomi Osaka condemned Jelena Ostapenko's comments towards Taylor Townsend during their US Open second-round match, calling them one of the worst things a player could say to a black opponent.

The clash unfolded after Townsend defeated Ostapenko 7-5, 6-1 at Flushing Meadows. Ostapenko accused the American of lacking class and education over an unintentional net cord, sparking criticism.

Townsend, who dismissed any racial intent, said being labelled uneducated is a stigma in her community but far from the truth. Ostapenko later denied any racist undertones in an Instagram post.

Support and Reactions

Osaka, a four-time major champion, questioned Ostapenko's grasp of America's racial history and said she would never make such a remark again. American third seed Coco Gauff, known for speaking out against racism, described the words as wrong and suggested they were said in the heat of the moment.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka also reached out to Ostapenko, offering support and urging her to reflect and grow from the incident.

Ostapenko's comments have sparked a wider debate on race and respect in tennis, underscoring the challenges faced by minority athletes in a predominantly white sport.

This topic was reported by BBC Sport.

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