Jelena Ostapenko’s interaction with a ball kid during the 2024 Dubai Tennis Championships has sparked humorous reactions from tennis enthusiasts.
Competing against Xiyu Wang in the first round of the WTA 1000 event on February 19, the ninth-seeded Ostapenko initially struggled to match her opponent’s powerful serves, conceding the opening set as Wang secured six aces in two games.
However, Ostapenko staged a remarkable comeback in the second set, capitalizing on Wang’s double faults to break her serve. The 26-year-old sustained her momentum to clinch the match 5-7, 6-2, 6-3.
During the third set, a ball kid accidentally collided with Ostapenko. Known for her assertive on-court demeanor, Ostapenko handled the incident with grace, gently guiding the girl aside and offering a warm smile.
This moment contrasted sharply with a recent controversy involving Ostapenko and Victoria Azarenka at the Qatar Open. Following her defeat, Ostapenko had offered her racket to Azarenka for a tap instead of a customary handshake, drawing criticism from fans.
Despite the recent controversy, Ostapenko’s interaction with the ball kid prompted social media users to share humorous comments about her contrasting behaviors.
One fan humorously speculated that Ostapenko would have reacted differently if faced with three break points, suggesting she might have “smashed” her racket on the kid.
