Russian tennis star Pavel Kotov surprises a young ball girl during his match against Artur Rinderknek at the Australian Open.
The 25-year-old narrowly avoided a first-round disqualification with a 7-5, 6-1, 6-7 (6-8), 6-7 (5-7), 6-3 victory over Rinderknek. Because of his outburst. After losing a point to Rinderknek, Kotov slammed the ball into the back wall.
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Pavel Kotov celebrates his victory over Arthur Rinderknecke in a men's singles match on the first day of the Australian Open in Melbourne, January 14, 2024. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)
When Kotov hit the ball, it did not reach the hands of the ball girl, who winced in fear.
Tennis 365 noted that Kotov would have been disqualified if he had hit the ball girl. World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was disqualified in 2020 when he punched a linesman in the throat while trying to hand the ball to one of the ball boys.
Wide World of Sports Australia He posted the clip on his Instagram page. Tennis fans took to the media's comment section to express their displeasure and condemn Kotov's abusive language.
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Pavel Kotov hits a return shot against Arthur Rinderknecke at the Australian Open on January 14, 2024. (Lilliam Suwanrunfa/AFP via Getty Images)
“As a parent of a ballplayer, I'm really disappointed he wasn't disqualified by the AO. Ballplayers are all volunteers and don't deserve to feel fear or intimidation while on duty,” one person wrote.
“Poor people shouldn't have to put up with such nonsense. I hope they get fined!!” Another added.
“So where is the disciplinary action by match officials and tournament officials? He should have lost points, been fined, and even apologized publicly. The standard you pass is the standard you accept. AO take action now!!!!!”
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Arthur Rinderknecke hits a return against Pavel Kotov at the Australian Open in Melbourne on January 14, 2024. (Lilliam Suwanrunfa/AFP via Getty Images)
Kotov was ranked 64th in the world before the tournament began. His second round starts on Tuesday. The opponent has not been decided yet.
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