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Ostapenko Apologizes for Racially Insensitive Remarks to Townsend

8/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Jelena Ostapenko apologized on social media for calling Taylor Townsend "no class" and "no education" after their US Open match.
Townsend, who is Black, received support from players like Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka, who criticized Ostapenko's remarks as racially insensitive.
Ostapenko stated her comments were about tennis etiquette, not race, but her apology sparked mixed reactions among fans.
Townsend highlighted the need to address disrespect in sports as she advanced in the tournament.

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Story summary

Jelena Ostapenko apologized on social media for calling Taylor Townsend "no class" and "no education" after their US Open match.
Townsend, who is Black, received support from players like Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka, who criticized Ostapenko's remarks as racially insensitive.
Ostapenko stated her comments were about tennis etiquette, not race, but her apology sparked mixed reactions among fans.
Townsend highlighted the need to address disrespect in sports as she advanced in the tournament.