‘Shocked’ Denis Shapovalov calls for protection ‘from abusive fans’ after Washington default
Denis Shapovalov has called on the ATP to “put better rules in place for protecting players from abusive fans” following his “unfair” disqualification from the Washington Open.
The Canadian was staring down the barrel during the second set tie-breaker of his quarter-final against Ben Shelton at the ATP 500 tournament when the match came to an abrupt end.
After hitting a ball into the net to give the American a match point on 7-6 (7-5), 6-6 (6-3), Shapovalov lost his cool and threw his racket onto the ground a couple of times and then got involved in a heated argument with a spectator.
He was accused of swearing at one point and after a discussion with the chair umpire and ATP supervisor, he was defaulted.
Players who are disqualified from matches automatically lose all the ranking points and prize money they earned during a tournament, but Shapovalov appealed and was allowed to keep his $53,240 in prize money and 100 points although he was slapped with a fine.
The 25-year-old took to social media to reveal he intends to launch another appeal against the fine he received.
“Dear fans, I would like to thank you for standing by my side through these last few days. As you can imagine it’s been an extremely stressful time for me,” he started off.
“I continue to feel shocked and disappointed over the decision to disqualify me from my match against Ben in Washington. It was not fair to me, him or anyone that was there to watch the match.
“I of course immediately submitted my appeal to the ATP and I am pleased and thankful with the quick decision to reinstate my points and prize money.
“I must state however that I do not agree with the hefty fine I was given, which is more than half the prize money I earned last week, and will continue to fight that.”
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Denis Shapovalov learns punishment appeal verdict after controversial default
The former world No 10 received support from the likes of Alexander Bublik and Vasek Pospisil after his default and he feels the ATP should change the “unnecessary, subjective ruling”.
Shapovalova added: “We all work extremely hard – our tennis careers are our lives and should not be derailed by unnecessary, subjective ruling. I also hope the ATP can put better rules in place for protecting players from abusive fans.
“I’d also like to take this time to thank the players that have openly stood up for me in the press and on social media.”
