Jelena Ostapenko has lashed out at the Wimbledon crowd for booing her during a tense third-set victory over British wildcard Harriet Dart on Court 1. The Latvian, fined £8,400 four years ago for hurling a water bottle, said she felt the spectators were unfairly against her.
Ostapenko Unhappy with Crowd Behavior
Ostapenko, a former semi-finalist at SW19 in 2018, claimed the crowd clapped her double faults and supported Dart excessively. There were some points where they were clapping for double faults. I was obviously not happy with that,
Ostapenko told reporters after the match. I feel like when I play somebody local or somebody that the crowd is supporting, I feel like I'm angry inside - in a good way. I just want to prove them wrong that they are not supporting the right person.
Apology and Mixed Emotions
Despite her anger, Ostapenko apologized during her on-court interview, saying, I'm probably not the one who you wanted to win but thank you it was a really nice atmosphere. Sorry if I was a little bit emotional but I feel like the first round is always tough especially when you face somebody from here.
Background of Ostapenko's Wimbledon History
The 28-year-old has a history of friction with Wimbledon crowds. In 2022, she was fined £8,400 for smashing a water bottle in frustration during a match. Her fiery temperament has often made her a polarizing figure on court.
Match Context and Promotion to Court 1
Ostapenko was promoted to Court 1 after Emma Raducanu withdrew from the tournament. The match against Dart, ranked No. 144, saw Ostapenko battle through a tough third set before prevailing 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. Dart, 27, was playing her first Wimbledon main draw since 2019.
