Zheng Qinwen Rebukes Taylor Townsend's Comments on Chinese Food After Cultural Insensitivity Sparks Outrage

The Billie Jean King Cup finals in Shenzhen have sparked controversy beyond the tennis courts. American player Taylor Townsend found herself at the centre of the debate after posting videos criticising Chinese cuisine.

In the video, Townsend showcased dishes such as frog and soft-shelled turtle from a buffet and expressed visible surprise, asking, “These people are literally killing bullfrogs. Aren’t those poisonous? Aren’t those the ones that give you warts and boils?”

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Her comments drew backlash on social media, with many viewers deeming them disrespectful. Numerous Chinese fans felt Townsend was mocking traditional cuisine.

Zheng Qinwen responds strongly

Amid the controversy, World No. 8 Zheng Qinwen responded firmly to Townsend’s remarks. In a social media post, Zheng said Townsend’s reaction reflected “arrogance” and insulted Chinese culture.

“You disrespect Chinese culture with your arrogance. If you want fried chicken, there’s KFC at the airport in Shenzhen,” Zheng wrote, tagging Townsend.

She emphasised that players travelling the world to compete should respect the traditions of the host country rather than mock them. Her response received widespread support from Chinese fans, who praised her for defending their cultural values.

Townsend issues an apology

After the backlash, Townsend issued a statement apologising to those hurt by her comments. “I just wanted to come on here and apologise sincerely from the bottom of my heart,” she said.

The 28-year-old acknowledged that her choice of words did not reflect her true views. “The things that I said are not representative of who I am at all. There is no excuse. I will be better,” she explained.

Townsend added that, as a professional athlete, she has been fortunate to travel the world and learn about other cultures. She expressed gratitude to the organizers for their hospitality and said she enjoyed her time in China for the most part.

The incident serves as a reminder that sports stars are judged not only by their performances on the court but also by their words off it. What may seem casual to one person can be perceived as offensive by others, especially when it involves cultural traditions.

As the Billie Jean King Cup continues, attention will inevitably return to the matches. Yet, this episode underscores that global sport is also about respect, awareness, and cultural sensitivity.