Jelena Ostapenko`s powerful and fast-paced style is well-known in tennis, but in Stuttgart, she shared that her love for speed extends beyond the court.

After progressing in the tournament due to Dayana Yastremska`s retirement, Ostapenko discussed her fearless approach in an interview. She enjoys rollercoasters, especially `crazy ones` for the adrenaline rush. At the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the conversation shifted to cars.

`I love to drive fast,` Ostapenko admitted. `I even took extreme driving courses to learn drifting and similar techniques.`

The Stuttgart tournament famously awards a Porsche to the champion. Ostapenko already owns a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, appreciating its high speed capabilities. When asked about speed limits, the former Roland Garros champion playfully said, `I hope the Latvian police aren`t watching!` with a laugh.

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 secured a first-round win against Nastasja Schunk and Ella Seidel in their third tournament as a team.

According to Ostapenko, the best aspect of partnering with Yastremska is the doubled fearlessness they bring to the court.

`I believe some doubles players lack this fearlessness,` Ostapenko explained. `We just go for our shots without worrying too much if they land in or out. I think it’s beneficial. Singles players are generally more fearless than doubles players, who can become stressed and tense in crucial moments.`

`I don’t see any downsides. If we have an off day, we have an off day, but we will always strive to play our best!`

Their continued progress depends on Yastremska`s recovery. Ostapenko expressed her understanding and well-wishes to Yastremska after their match.

`Health is paramount,` she emphasized. `It always comes first, and everything else follows.`

In singles, Ostapenko`s next opponent will be either No. 7 seed Emma Navarro or Beatriz Haddad Maia.