World No. 7 Russian tennis player Mirra Andreeva had a disagreement with the umpire over a decision to replay a point during her match in Rome.
The incident occurred in the fourth round of the tournament during her match against Clara Tauson. In the third set, with the score at 1-1, 15/0 on Andreeva`s serve, the court lights illuminated during the rally. Tauson requested a video review. Following the review, the umpire announced that because the lights had come on before Andreeva hit the ball, the point had to be replayed.
The young Russian player strongly disagreed with the chair umpire`s ruling and began arguing with her.
“She [Tauson] had zero chance, zero. And you`re saying we are going to replay the point because you think she had a possibility to hit the ball.”
“I will tell you if you let me speak. The lights came on before you hit the ball. When you were hitting it, she was already asking me about the lighting.”
“Yes, because she knew she was going to lose the point! I was in the middle of the court – of course she would stop the rally. You yourself understand how ridiculous this decision is.”
“The ball must be replayed.”
Andreeva initially walked away but then returned and questioned the umpire:
“Will you be penalized for mistakes? I don`t think so. Because…”
“If I made a mistake, we can talk about it after the match, no problem.”
“Okay.”
During the emotional exchange, Andreeva reportedly cried.
Despite the dispute, she ultimately went on to win the match with a score of 5/7, 6/3, 6/2.
Marcus Prine