Paula Badosa has apologised after a photo of her holding chopsticks to her face sparked outrage online.
The Spanish tennis star was competing in the China Open last week where she was knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual champion Coco Gauff.
Badosa's coach, Pol Toledo Bague, put up a series of photos on Instagram documenting their time at the China Open.
But a picture of Badosa in a restaurant caught the attention of some who felt she was making a racist gesture.
The photo of Paula Badosa has now been deleted
Badosa posed in the picture with chopsticks on both hands raised up to her face with her eyes closed.
Bague removed the picture from the Instagram post, but the backlash continued for Badosa.
The 26-year-old initially tried to downplay her pose and replied to a comment on Instagram, writing: "Oh no please don't get it that way.
"Never thought it would get interpreted this way we weren't even imitating asian people.
"I was playing around with my face and wrinkles. I love Asia one of my favourite people and have plenty of Asian friends. They are the kindest."
Her comment failed to win over some fans, with one social media user accusing her of 'lying through her teeth'.
That message prompted another response from Badosa, who issued a public apology on X.
She replied: "Hey guys! Really sorry didn’t know this was offensive towards racism.
Paula Badosa was competing in the China Open last week
REUTERS
"My mistake. I take full responsibility. This mistakes will make me learn for next time.
"Hope you understand…. I love you all."
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Paula Badosa lost to Coco Gauff in the China Open semi-finals
REUTERS
Badosa has enjoyed an impressive 2024 which saw her clinch her fourth WTA title of her career.
She also reached the quarter-finals of the US Open for a career-best run at Flushing Meadows.
Her run of form this year has seen Badosa return to 15th in the world rankings with a chance of climbing even higher at this week's Wuhan Open.
