Taylor Townsend is finally breaking her silence after Jelena Ostapenko issued a public apology for her controversial outburst at the US Open.
As reported, Ostapenko went viral for all the wrong reasons after blasting Townsend with comments that she had “no class” and “no education” following her win earlier this week. The moment sparked global backlash, with even Naomi Osaka chiming in on the heated exchange.
Ostapenko later attempted to clarify her remarks in an Instagram post, blaming a language barrier and insisting her use of the word “education” referred to “tennis etiquette.”
Now, Townsend has weighed in. Speaking after her third-round victory over Mirra Andreeva, the American star acknowledged the apology but didn’t hold back:
“That’s nice that she apologized. I mean, that’s fine, that’s cool. At the end of the day, I think it’s a learning lesson for her.”
Still, Townsend made it clear she wasn’t letting the moment slide.
“She expected me to react a certain type of way, and I didn’t, and it infuriated her. That led her to say things that were hurtful, belligerent, and offensive. Not only to me, but to the sport and a whole culture of people that I try to represent the best I can.”
Townsend also pointed out that Ostapenko has a history of similar outbursts, especially when frustrated on court.
“It’s apparently been multiple occasions where she has gotten upset about a net cord. So honestly, it didn’t surprise me.”
With both stars moving forward in different directions, fans are left debating whether Ostapenko’s apology was enough — and whether Townsend’s response sets the tone for accountability in the sport.
