Russian-born tennis player Anastasia Potapova has publicly criticized a United Airlines flight attendant on social media, citing alleged disrespect and discrimination during a journey to the US Open. Potapova, ranked No. 28 in the world, detailed the incident on her Instagram Story, describing the experience as "humiliating and disrespectful."
Potapova stated that the flight attendant, whom she identified as Mary, repeatedly created problems for her and her dog without apparent reason. According to Potapova, the flight attendant was rude and repeatedly brought up her status, threatening to remove her from flight UA678 from Houston to New York.
"I have never done anything like this before, but right now I simply cannot stay silent," Potapova wrote. "As a professional athlete, I travel extensively all over the world, but this is the first time I have ever experienced this level of disrespect, rudeness, and, to some extent, discrimination."
She added that flight attendants are expected to assist passengers, not create obstacles. Potapova expressed hope that United Airlines would investigate the matter seriously, stating that no passenger or animal should endure such treatment from cabin crew.
Potapova also shared a photograph of the flight attendant in question and mentioned receiving messages from followers who claimed to have had similar negative experiences with the same individual. She indicated that she is in communication with United Airlines regarding the incident and appreciated their prompt response.
The 25-year-old recently switched her sporting nationality to Austrian. She was heading to New York for the US Open, where she is the 24th seed in the women's singles draw. Potapova had previously withdrawn from the Monterrey Open due to a back injury. Last year, she reached the second round of the US Open singles draw and achieved a career-best third round in 2024.
Earlier this year, Potapova defeated American Coco Gauff at the French Open and reached the fourth round at Roland Garros. She also became the first lucky loser to reach a WTA 1000 semifinal at the Madrid Open. Potapova was formerly married to tennis player Alexander Shevchenko, but they divorced after the 2024 US Open.