How a shot in the dark Instagram message from superfan led to Ostapenko helping fan into blockbuster Swiatek win at US Open
WTATuesday, 05 September 2023 at 08:00
Latvia’s tennis star Jelena Ostapenko arranged a ticket for
a superfan to watch her play in the US Open 2023.
The fourth and final Grand Slam of the year is moving
towards the business end where players from all over the world are showcasing their
talent.
Ostapenko produced one of the biggest upsets of the current
edition of the mega-event as she defeated Poland’s Iga Swiatek in the round of
16 tie with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-1.
That result was such a significant one that it ended up
costing Swiatek her number-one spot in the WTA rankings.
During that match, young Jonah Soble was sitting in the arena
and rooting for the 26-year-old. His presence was a special one as his ticket
was arranged by Ostapenko herself.
That happened after Soble messaged her on Instagram asking if
there was a way to get him into the arena.
That result was an extremely special one for Ostapenko as she
qualified for the quarterfinal of the US Open for the first time ever.
She will now face America’s young tennis sensation Coco
Gauff in the last-eight fixture of the mega-event on Tuesday.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
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- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
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