Naomi Osaka Calls Jelena Ostapenko’s Comments to Taylor Townsend ‘One of the Worst Things You Can Say to a Black Tennis Player’

Osaka didn’t pile on—she set a standard. She separated competitive heat from language that echoes stereotypes, especially in a sport with specific demographics and history.

Her message traveled because it was clear: emotions aren’t a free pass. There are lines we keep bright so the game stays fierce—and humane.