Former Wimbledon semi-finalist Jelena Ostapenko faced the wrath of the crowd on Court 1 during her first-round match against British player Harriet Dart. The Latvian, who won the first set but lost the second, appeared to bait fans at the changeover at 4-3 in the deciding third set, prompting boos from the 12,000-strong audience.
Ostapenko's Actions Draw Criticism
Commentator Chris Bradnam remarked: "Ostapenko is quite happy to pick a fight. She's taking on over 12,000." Co-commentator and former Wimbledon champion Martina Navratilova added: "Not a good idea but I think she's used to that. They're not applauding the fact that she double-faulted, they're applauding that Harriet Dart broke serve and it's back on serve."
Earlier in the match, Navratilova had questioned Ostapenko's behaviour when the 29-year-old held her racquet high above her head as Dart prepared for a pressure serve. "Why is Ostapenko holding up her racket? Why is she holding it up? Seriously!?" Navratilova asked. However, it was later revealed that a fan with a mobile phone in the crowd was responsible, leading Navratilova to say: "Oh it's a mobile phone, that is so annoying. You rarely get that happening these days."
Late Court Change Due to Raducanu Withdrawal
The match was moved to Court 1 at late notice after Emma Raducanu withdrew from the Championships due to a stress fracture. Raducanu said in a statement: "I've done everything possible to try to get to the start line tomorrow but after a final scan tonight, the niggle I've been managing has developed into a stress fracture and I've been medically advised to stop pushing through."
