Reilly Opelka is facing possible disciplinary action following his post-match remarks about a chair umpire, whom he described as the “worst ump on tour,” according to a statement from the ATP.
The 211cm American was incensed after receiving a point penalty while serving for the match during the third set against Cameron Norrie at the Dallas Open on Friday (AEDT).
Opelka was penalised for swearing after he expressed his frustration towards a spectator, whom he claimed was intentionally disturbing his serve throughout the game.
“Audible obscenities directed at members of the public clearly violate ATP rules,” stated the tour in its announcement.
“In such cases, the chair umpire has an obligation to take the necessary actions, regardless of the score in the match.
Reilly Opelka has landed himself in trouble after criticising a chair umpire over his handling of a heckling spectator. Getty
“The ATP will assess Mr Opelka’s remarks following the match in line with its usual disciplinary procedures.”
Opelka ultimately won the match with scores of 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-4.
Post-match, the 27-year-old expressed his frustration with umpire Greg Allensworth for not addressing the disruptive fan during play.
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“He’s the worst ump on tour. He’s terrible. He nearly altered the result of that match just because he doesn’t really know what he’s doing,” Opelka remarked.
“He got emotional during our argument… Why didn’t he tell the fan to be quiet? He let it go on for about three points.”
“He failed to do his job, so I had to tell the fan to ‘get out of here’.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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