Jelena Ostapenko`s powerful and fast-paced style is a signature of her tennis, but in Stuttgart, she admitted this love for speed isn`t just on the court.

After progressing in her match against Dayana Yastremska, who retired due to illness while trailing 6-3, 3-0, Ostapenko was asked about her fearless approach in an on-court interview. She mentioned rollercoasters, especially `crazy ones` for the adrenaline rush. At the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the topic naturally shifted to cars.

`I love driving fast,` Ostapenko stated. `I`ve even taken extreme driving courses to learn drifting and similar techniques.`

The Stuttgart tournament famously awards a Porsche to the champion each year. Ostapenko already owns a Porsche Cayenne Turbo because of its speed. When asked about speed limits, the former Roland Garros champion laughed and said, `I hope the Latvian police aren`t watching!`


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Ostapenko`s victory was somewhat bittersweet as Yastremska is a friend and her doubles partner this week. Their reunion as a doubles team is highly anticipated, recalling their 2019 Beijing final appearance in their first outing. This is only their third tournament together, as Yastremska`s previous doubles ranking prevented consistent entry into draws. They recently won their first-round match against Nastasja Schunk and Ella Seidel.

The best part of partnering with Yastremska? Ostapenko believes their combined fearlessness is a significant advantage in doubles.

`I think some doubles players lack this fearlessness,` Ostapenko explained. `When you commit to shots without worrying about errors, it`s beneficial. Singles players are generally more fearless than doubles players, who can become stressed in crucial moments.`

`I don`t see downsides to our partnership. If we have an off day, we have an off day, but we`ll always try our best to have a good day!`

Their continued progress depends on Yastremska`s recovery. Ostapenko expressed understanding and wished Yastremska well after the match.

`Health is paramount,` she emphasized. `It always comes first, before everything else.`

In singles, Ostapenko`s next opponent will be either No. 7 seed Emma Navarro or Beatriz Haddad Maia.


Tournament order of play information was originally available here.