Overview

• After losing to Taylor Townsend, Jelena Ostapenko told her opponent she had “no class” and “no education,” prompting widespread criticism.
• Naomi Osaka called the wording “one of the worst things you can say to a Black tennis player,” amplifying the controversy across the tournament.
• Townsend said she did not personally interpret the remark as racist but noted it echoes a harmful stereotype and emphasized moving forward in the event.
• Ostapenko denied racist intent, said she was angered by Townsend not apologizing for a net-cord point, deleted her Instagram explanation, and skipped a scheduled news conference citing medical reasons.
• Players including Ben Shelton criticized the comment, Aryna Sabalenka said she tried to calm Ostapenko, and Coco Gauff defended Townsend’s character as coverage and social media attention grew.