US Open star Anastasia Potapova has fired back at her critics after being accused of poor sportsmanship towards her opponent during her run in the competition.
Russian-born Potapova stunned Flushing Meadows when she knocked out American Amanda Anisimova in straight sets on Saturday afternoon.
After shaking hands at the net and celebrating her victory with the crowd, Potapova was caught on camera appearing to sarcastically wave goodbye in the direction of Anisimova.
The incident sparked widespread debate on social media, with some fans calling out Potapova over the alleged unsportsmanlike behavior.
However, the Russian-born star has now spoken out and revealed the truth about her gesture, insisting it was aimed at one of her friends sat in the crowd.
Taking to her Instagram story, Potapova wrote: ‘I see so many questions about my bye wave after the match.
US Open star Anastasia Potapova has fired back at her critics after being accused of poor sportsmanship towards her opponent during her run in the competition
Russian-born Potapova was accused by fans of waving sarcastically at her beaten rival
‘You just wanna make a circus out of everything. I waved to my friend, who’s been sitting there and supporting me. Just be easier guys, but I guess haters gonna hate.’
Following the initial incident, fans rushed online to call out Potapova’s actions.
One commented: ‘Tell me that Potapova didn’t just do what I think I saw her do, that would be a total lack of respect.’
Another added: ‘I’ve rewatched it a few times and can’t imagine it being anything other than Potapova rudely waving and saying ‘bye bye’ to Anisimova.’
Meanwhile, a third added: ‘Is this behavior typical of Potapova? I understand the moment getting to you but don’t think there’s much excuse for this.’
It came at the end of a frustrating day for Anisimova, who missed repeated chances by converting just three of 16 break-point chances before losing 6-2, 7-5.
Potapova, a 25-year-old who was born in Russia but now represents Austria, went six for eight and matched her best showing in a Grand Slam tournament by reaching the fourth round.
However, her journey in the competition came to an end on Sunday afternoon after falling to a 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 defeat to 19-year-old star Mirra Andreeva.
