Jelena Ostapenko`s aggressive and powerful style on the court is well-known, but in Stuttgart, she shared that her love for speed isn`t limited to tennis.
After progressing in her match against Dayana Yastremska, who had to withdraw due to illness, Ostapenko was asked about her bold nature. While rollercoasters, especially the most thrilling ones, are a favorite pastime for her, the conversation at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix naturally shifted to cars.
`I really enjoy driving fast,` Ostapenko admitted. `I`ve even taken advanced driving courses where I learned how to drift and other techniques.`
The Stuttgart tournament famously awards a Porsche to the champion each year. Ostapenko already owns a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, specifically because of its high speed capabilities. When asked about speed limits, the former Roland Garros champion playfully responded with a laugh, `I hope the Latvian police aren`t watching!`
Ostapenko`s victory was somewhat bittersweet as Yastremska is a friend and her doubles partner for the week. Their reunion in doubles is significant, as they previously reached the Beijing final in 2019. Despite limited opportunities to play together due to Yastremska`s doubles ranking, they`ve already won their first match in Stuttgart.
According to Ostapenko, the best aspect of partnering with Yastremska is the amplified fearlessness they bring to the court.
`I think some doubles players lack this fearlessness,` Ostapenko explained. `We just commit to our shots without hesitation. Singles players tend to be more fearless, while some doubles players can become tense in crucial moments.`
`I see no downsides to our partnership. If we have an off day, we have an off day, but we`ll always strive to play our best!`
Their continued progress depends on Yastremska`s recovery. Ostapenko expressed her understanding and sent well wishes to Yastremska after their match.
`Health is the priority,` she emphasized. `It always comes first, above everything else.`
In singles, Ostapenko`s next opponent will be either No. 7 seed Emma Navarro or Beatriz Haddad Maia.
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