Latvian firebrand Jelena Ostapenko has launched a stunning accusation of racial bias, claiming a chair umpire's decisions were influenced by her opponent's nationality in a stormy US Open fourth-round exit.
The 2017 French Open champion's defeat to American hope Coco Gauff was overshadowed by a deeply contentious incident that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world.
A Clash on Court
The flashpoint occurred with Ostapenko trailing in the second set. A furious dispute erupted over a line call, culminating in the Latvian star receiving a code violation for an audible obscenity after slamming her racket in frustration.
In a post-match press conference that crackled with tension, Ostapenko did not hold back. "I think she was just doing everything in favour of Coco because she is from America," the former champion stated, her words dripping with indignation. "It's not fair. I think it was a little bit of racism."
The Controversial Call
At the heart of the controversy was a ball initially called out on Gauff's serve, a decision promptly overruled by the chair umpire. Ostapenko, who had already stopped playing, vehemently argued the point should have been hers.
This pivotal moment triggered a spectacular meltdown. The Latvian's protests grew increasingly heated, resulting in the code violation that effectively sealed her fate in the match.
Fallout and Reaction
The sensational allegations have ignited a fierce debate about impartiality in sports officiating. While Ostapenko stands firmly by her claims, the tennis community is divided. Some see it as a desperate outburst from a losing player, while others question the consistency of umpiring standards in high-pressure matches involving home favourites.
As the dust settles on another dramatic day at Flushing Meadows, one thing is certain: this controversy is set to rumble on long after the final ball has been struck, raising uncomfortable questions about race, nationality, and fairness at the highest level of the game.
