US Open: Taylor Townsend Reacts to Jelena Ostapenko’s “No Class” Diss

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Competition is heating up in the second round of the US Open.

After Jelena “Alona” Ostapenko‘s 5-7, 1-6 defeat to American Taylor Townsend on August 27, the Latvian tennis player reportedly exchanged some strong remarks with her opponent.

After their match, the previous French Open winner seemed to scold Townsend for not apologizing earlier when her ball struck the net and still remained in play. (Although many players usually signal an apology by raising their hand after a fortunate net cord, there is no rule that compels a player to express regret.)

Following the back-and-forth conversation, punctuated by the crowd’s disapproval with their boos, Townsend shared the particular instance during a post-match interview on court.

She clarified that in competitive situations like Ostapenko’s, people can become upset upon losing, sometimes resorting to unkind words. Ostapenko reportedly commented to her, “You lack class, you lack education and let’s see what happens when we step outside the U.S.

In simpler terms, Townsend mentioned that she was eager to observe what more Ostapenko might have to showcase in upcoming tournaments, since she had already defeated her in Canada.

She, being 29 years old, furthermore explained that she maintained a positive demeanor even when she initially fell behind during the game against her rival.

When she was performing admirably, I remained silent. This demonstrates her elegance,” she added. “At times, someone’s performance is so exceptional that one has to simply acknowledge it.

Following the match’s tense ending, Ostapenko weighed in with her thoughts on social media.

Following today’s match, I shared with my opponent that her actions were disrespectful when she had a clear opportunity to hit the ball into the net during a crucial moment and didn’t apologize. In an Instagram post, I mentioned that she responded by stating she wasn’t obligated to issue an apology at all. I explained that there are certain tennis rules many players abide by, and this was the first time such an incident occurred with me on tour.

The 28-year-old stated, “Playing in her home country does not give her license to act however she pleases.

During the match, Ostapenko criticized Townsend’s pre-game warm-up routine, noting that while there may not be specific regulations about the sequence of a warm-up, it’s generally considered important for proper preparation.

In his note, the Latvian expressed that traditionally, all players should begin the match by warming up on the baseline. However, his opponent disregarded this custom and began their warm-up immediately upon entering the court, which he found disrespectful and contrary to the rules of a tennis match.

Despite the loss and notable exchange that followed, Ostapenko concluded with a note of gratitude.

She expressed her gratitude to her fans for their support, mentioning that she’ll return with renewed strength. Encounters like these inspire her to put in more effort and work harder.

Apart from some exciting court action, the US Open has also been graced by numerous celebrity appearances. Let’s delve into who the famous attendees of this year’s tennis event are.

The comedian and actress stepped out for a date night on Aug. 26.

The WNBA star was all smiles as she watched the action on Aug. 26.

During the 2025 US Open at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the actress savors a refreshing Dobel Tequila Ace Paloma cocktail.

The I Know What You Did Last Summer actor donned a Ralph Lauren cardigan for the occasion.

As I found myself seated courtside next to my daughter, Kitty-blu Appleton, I ensured to keep myself well-hydrated throughout the game by sipping on Evian.

On August 26th, the Today show’s co-host and his spouse made a stylish entrance to witness Coco Gauff compete in her initial round match.

The Summer House stars and Giggly Squad co-hosts partnered up for photos on the blue carpet.

The Insecure alum looked stunning as she walked the Blue Carpet at the 2025 US Open.

The Euphoria star stopped by the Moet & Chandon Clubhouse suite on Aug. 24.

Previously starred on The Vampire Diaries, the actor and his partner graced the blue carpet for an event before settling down to watch a tennis game at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

On August 25th, the actor from “Wicked” and his spouse delighted in watching the tennis match featuring Venus Williams and Karolina Muchova.

The social influencer struck a pose for pictures upon arriving to watch her partner, Tommy Paul, play in the tournament.

At the luxurious Moet & Chandon Clubhouse suite, the successful actress from The Studio and the five-time Grand Slam tennis champion celebrated their achievements with a toast.

The Blue Bloods actress was serving summer style as arrived at the tournament.

On August 24th, the Baldwins took pleasure in observing Novak Djokovic compete in his initial match, an event they found thrilling to watch.

The trio had a smashing time at the USTA Foundation’s Opening Night Gala.

At the IHG Hotels & Resorts Suite during the US Open, the star of “The Hunting Wives” sipped on a refreshing “Watermelon Slice” cocktail.

Ms. Tina attended the USTA Foundation’s Opening Night Gala on Aug. 24.

The Hamilton creator didn’t throw away his shot at catching a mixed doubles match on Aug. 20.

The mother-daughter duo had a family day out at the 2025 U.S. Open.

The iconic TV producer attended the opening night gala at the US Open 2025.

The Pitt star applauded the players from the stand.

The Naked Gun actress attended a mixed doubles match on Aug. 19.

The WNBA star had a slam dunk day out at the sporting event.

The Disney Channel alum recorded an episode of his Good Guys podcast with his co-host.

The Law & Order alum made an arresting appearance at the tennis tournament on Aug. 19.

The comedians shared a laugh—and a VIP box—at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing, N.Y.

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2025-08-28 04:17