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Never-before-seen moment tennis ace asks opponent to help him get umpire changed

03 June 2024 , 09:56
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He is not the only tennis star to behave petulantly at the French Open
He is not the only tennis star to behave petulantly at the French Open

HUBERT HURKACZ bizarrely asked opponent Grigor Dimitrov to help him in his request to have the umpire changed during their French Open clash.

The world number eight became frustrated after losing the first two sets to Dimitrov, who took the first after a tie-break.

Hubert Hurkacz, left, asked Grigor Dimitrov if he wanted the change umpires uhihriqhitdprw
Hubert Hurkacz, left, asked Grigor Dimitrov if he wanted the change umpires
Hurkacz became frustrated by some of the umpire's decisions
Hurkacz became frustrated by some of the umpire's decisionsCredit: Getty

Hurkacz was then tipped over the edge by a decision from the umpire in the third set, demanding the supervisor be called despite the umpire's judgement appearing to be accurate.

Moments later, during a change of ends, Hurkacz bizarrely tried to get Dimitrov on board with his plan to oust umpire Alison Hughes.

He said to Dimitrov: "You wanna continue? You wanna continue with the lady here or you wanna change?"

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The Bulgarian responded: "Change what?"

"Change the umpire!", Hurkacz hit back.

The pair later had another conversation before resuming play, with Dimitrov sealing a straight set win.

After the match Hurkacz was asked about the incident and if he has ever asked for the umpire to be changed before.

He responded saying: "I think I could have asked before. No, just asking Grigor if he would like to make the change. If not, then we're perfectly fine."

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He said of the umpire: "No, all good. It's clay court, so it's sometimes difficult when the balls are really close to make, yeah, just it's really close from time to time.

"Definitely some of the calls you wish they are different way, but it's just the way it is, and you gotta accept the things.

"We just compete as players and try to do our best."

Dimitrov played down the incident, saying: "I think the thing is we all can say very difficult things in the heat of a moment. I'm sure whatever he said, it was not meant in a bad way. As I said, he is one of the nicest guys on tour.

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"Also, the umpires, they're trying their best. It's a tricky business out there when the ball gets so close to the line. So I think they're doing their best.

"On his end we can all say difficult things in the heat of a moment, so I don't think he meant anything bad on that end. As I said, everyone tries to do their best. I think when you play match from such a caliber, when you see it from the outside, of course, it gets tough on both ends.

"As I said, he doesn't mean any harm or anything like that."

Kealan Hughes

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