Yulia Putintseva Apologizes for US Open Incident

Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva faced significant backlash during the 2024 US Open after she displayed disrespectful behavior towards a ball girl during her third-round match against Jasmine Paolini. The incident, which went viral, prompted criticism from tennis legend Boris Becker, who condemned her actions on social media. Following the match, which she lost 6-3, 6-4, Putintseva issued an apology on Instagram, explaining that her frustration was directed at herself for not converting break points rather than at the ball girl, who she praised for her professionalism. She emphasized that her actions were not a reflection of the ball kids, who she acknowledged were doing an excellent job. The incident sparked discussions about the treatment of ball kids in professional tennis, with many expressing their support for the young girl. Paolini, who advanced to the next round, joins Coco Gauff as one of the only two women to reach the fourth round in all Grand Slams this season.