August 17th 2024.
In a thrilling match at the Cincinnati Open, British tennis star Jack Draper emerged victorious against Felix Auger-Aliassime, securing a spot in the quarter-finals. However, his win was marred by a controversial match point that has left the tennis world buzzing.
The moment that will be forever etched in everyone's minds was when Draper hit a half-volley that appeared to have bounced off the court surface before clipping the net cord and landing in Auger-Aliassime's court. Despite the Canadian's protests, the umpire, Greg Allensworth, deemed the shot to be legal, granting Draper the win.
However, television replays later confirmed that the shot was indeed illegal and should not have counted. The issue stems from the absence of video review technology at the Cincinnati Open. In the heat of the moment, Draper offered to replay the point if a replay could confirm the illegality of his shot, but Auger-Aliassime was not convinced and voiced his frustration at the net.
The incident sent Auger-Aliassime into a meltdown, with him directing most of his anger towards Allensworth for his call. The crowd also joined in, chanting for a replay, but due to ATP rules, the use of VAR-style technology is not permitted, and the match was ultimately awarded to Draper.
After the match, Draper expressed his willingness to replay the point if the officials could confirm the illegality of his shot. However, the lack of technology made it impossible, and he was left with mixed emotions about his win. The incident has caused quite a stir on social media, with many players and former players weighing in, including Nick Kyrgios, who called the call "horrible."
Despite the controversy, Draper is now one step closer to following in the footsteps of his fellow British tennis star, Andy Murray, who recently retired. For now, the focus remains on the controversial match point, with many questioning the use of technology in tennis and the responsibility of players and officials in such situations.
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