Stuttgart Open organisers to investigate Kyrgios’ racial abuse claims
Stuttgart Open organisers have confirmed they are investigating Nick Kyrgios’ claim that he was racially abused during his semi-final loss to Andy Murray on Saturday.
Kyrgios and Murray were involved in an entertaining match during which the Australian lost his cool and received a points and game penalty, and also became involved in an argument with the chair umpire.
Nick Kyrgios during Saturday’s Stuttgart Open semi-final against Andy MurrayCredit:Getty Images
Kyrgios, who refused to play during the second set until the supervisor stepped in, lost 7-6(5), 6-2. He later revealed on Instagram that he had retaliated after hearing a racial slur.
“We stand for creating an inclusive environment for all players, staff members and visitors where discrimination of any kind is not tolerated,” organisers said in a statement on Sunday.
“This attitude is lived by all people involved and responsible. These fundamental values are as important as values like fairness, tolerance and team spirit to us. Thus no discriminating actions by the spectators are accepted.
“We have expressed our regret towards Nick Kyrgios and his team and assured that any kind of discrimination is unacceptable. The incident is currently under investigation.”
The statement came ahead of Sunday’s final, which saw Matteo Berrettini beat Murray 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 to deny the Scot what would have been his first title on grass in six years.
Second seed Berrettini, who missed the claycourt season after undergoing surgery on his hand in March, was playing in his first tournament since Indian Wells and triumphed after Murray had injury issues of his own in the decider.
Murray, who has had hip surgeries that nearly ended his career, was not moving well as the match wore on. A reprieve on championship point only delayed the inevitable as Berrettini sealed victory in two hours and 40 minutes.
Reuters
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