World No. 7 Russian player Mirra Andreeva had a significant disagreement with the umpire regarding a decision to replay a point.
In her fourth-round match at the Rome tournament, she faced Clara Tauson. In the third set, with the score at 1/1, 15/0 on Andreeva`s serve, the court lighting unexpectedly turned on during a rally. Tauson requested a video review. Following the review, the umpire announced that the lights had illuminated before Andreeva struck the ball, determining that the point needed to be replayed.
The Russian was not happy with the chair umpire`s ruling and began to argue with her.
– “She [Tauson] had zero chance, absolutely none. And you`re saying we have to replay the point because you think she had a chance to hit the ball.”
The umpire responded:
– “I will explain to you if you allow me. The light came on before you hit the ball. When you were hitting it, she was already asking me about the lighting.”
Andreeva countered vehemently:
– “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 umpire maintained her position:
– “The ball must be replayed.”
After this exchange, the Russian player walked away briefly but then returned and questioned the umpire:
– “Will you be penalized for mistakes? I don`t think so. Because…”
The umpire interrupted:
– “If I made a mistake, we can discuss it after the match, no problem.”
– “Okay,” Andreeva conceded.
During the emotional dispute, Andreeva became tearful.
Despite the incident, she ultimately won the match with a score of 5/7, 6/3, 6/2.
