Dan Evans hits out at ‘disgusting’ accusations by French Open doubles opponents

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Dan Evans

Dan Evans branded the conduct of his doubles opponents at the French Open “disgusting” after becoming embroiled in a furious on-court row.

The British singles No 1 and Polish partner Hubert Hurkacz were taking on Dutchman Matwe Middelkoop and Brazilian Marcel Demoliner in the first round in Paris.

Things became heated in the third set when Demoliner and Middelkoop claimed the ball had hit Evans during a point, which he denied.

Evans was then furious at not being trusted by Middelkoop over a line call when he circled a mark on the clay.

Evans confronted Middelkoop at the change of ends and umpire Arnaud Gabas had to step in to separate them.

“I’d say I’m pretty fair,” said Evans. “For me that there is as good as calling me a cheat, which is disgusting. And I won’t let that go and that’s why I told him when we went 5-2 up.

“Some of these guys seem to be happy to give it out to us but don’t like it when it comes back their way and I’ve no issues with doing that. I was pretty angry on the court. I don’t like that.

“There’s one thing that us Brits are is too fair in my opinion. I would say if it hit me. I don’t think it hit me.

“They won the point so I don’t see what the big deal is. It’s embarrassing chat from the pair of them. It’s desperation in my opinion. I’m still seething.”

Evans had the last laugh, though, as he and Hurkacz claimed a 7-6 (7-2), 3-6, 7-5 victory.

“There’s plenty of time to think about it,” added Evans. “A few more weeks until he plays again, poor kid.”

Evans and Hurkacz take on second seeds Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos in the second round on Thursday.

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