Taiwanese Tennis Stars Clash at US Open Amid Personal Feud

A dramatic encounter between Taiwanese tennis players Hsieh Su-wei and Chan Hao-ching unfolded at the US Open. The conflict involved taunts, an argument with the umpire, and an intentional snub during the post-match handshake.

The incident occurred during the Women’s Doubles Round of 16 at Flushing Meadows. Hsieh, partnered with Latvian player Jeļena Ostapenko, defeated Chan and Australian player Maya Joint in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

During the match, Hsieh and Ostapenko accused Chan’s coach of mockingly applauding their mistakes in Mandarin from the player’s box. Since Ostapenko does not understand Mandarin, Hsieh translated the remarks for her on the court.

Ostapenko criticized the behavior and called for a Chinese translator to be present. She claimed, “They do this because they know they cannot beat us, because they’re so much worse than us.”

After securing the victory, Ostapenko celebrated by shouting directly towards Chan’s coaching box.

A controversial moment followed at the net when Chan bypassed Hsieh during the handshake, acknowledging Ostapenko but ignoring her Taiwanese counterpart.

The source of tension between the players dates back years, rooted in domestic disputes over resources, national team support, and sports politics within Taiwan.

Both athletes compete internationally under the name “Chinese Taipei,” a designation required by governing bodies.

Hsieh, formerly ranked No. 1 in doubles, has often criticized the Chinese Taipei Tennis Association for preferential treatment towards Chan and her sister Latisha Chan in terms of funding, sponsorships, and coaching opportunities.

The tension escalated during the 2016 Rio Olympics when Hsieh’s coach was overlooked in favor of the Chan family. In protest, Hsieh withdrew from the Games, igniting a feud that reached boiling point during the US Open.