JELENA OSTAPENKO became the villain of Wimbledon after sarcastically clapping the crowd during her win over home favourite Harriet Dart.
The Latvian star beat the British hopeful in three sets, winning 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 on Court 1.
Jelana Ostapenko became public enemy No 1 at Wimbledon during her win over Harriet Dart Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
The Latvian irked the crowd as she sarcastically clapped them on No 1 court Credit: BBC
But she found herself unpopular with the crowd, who started cheering whenever Dart broke her serve.
Ostapenko wasn’t happy with them as she chose to sarcastically applaud, which only made matters worse.
Commentator Chris Bradnam said: “Ostapenko is quite happy to pick a fight with this crowd. She’s taking on over 12,000 in here.”
And legend Martina Navratilova agreed her behaviour was “not a good idea” inside the arena containing 12,000 fans.
She told BBC Sport: “Yeah, that’s not a good idea for Ostapenko.
“They’re not applauding the fact she double faulted.
“They’re applauding the fact that Harriet Dart broke her and is back on serve.
“These days that kind of reaction is to be expected but I understand it can still be frustrating.”
Ostapenko wasn’t happy with the crowd cheering Dart for breaking her serve Credit: EPA
Ostapenko admitted the crowd’s behaviour got under her skin Credit: AFP Wimbledon 2026 - all the info
Wimbledon is back as the world's best descend on SW19!
is looking to retain the title with rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured.
But can Novak Djokovic claim a record 25th Grand Slam triumph and crown himself as the greatest player of all-time.
On the women’s side, home favourite Emma Raducanu pulled out but legend is making her return to Centre Court after four years retired.
Iga Swiatek is hoping to become a back-to-back champion, while Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff are among the other favourites.
LIVE COVERAGE
LATEST NEWS
KEY INFO
Ostapenka later admitted the crowd’s antics got to her – but she did apologise for antagonising them.
She told the media: “There were some points where they were clapping for double faults. I was obviously not happy with that.
“But, I mean, this is normal, because they are trying to support their local player.
“I think especially after the first set when Harriet was leading in the second set, I felt like they were into it because they wanted also a third set.
“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.
“It was a rollercoaster but I’m really proud of myself. When I play somebody local or just somebody that the crowd is supporting, I feel like I’m angry in a good way and I just want to prove wrong that like, you guys are not supporting the right person.
“Not in this case because she is from here and this is a good crowd from here. I just wanted to prove that you guys should support me in the next match.”
Ostapenko is ranked 31 in the WTA women’s rankings and once reached the semi-finals in 2018.
She is a Grand Slam winner having lifted in 2017.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
