Becker: “That was an exaggeration”: Vortex on the ball girl scandal at the French Open

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In the women’s doubles round of 16, Japan’s Miyu Kato (28) accidentally hit a ball girl with a ball, causing her to cry. Kato and doubles partner Aldila Sutjiadi (Indonesia) were subsequently disqualified. A controversial decision.

The punishment is too severe for tennis legend Boris Becker. “It was an exaggerated measure. Kato did not do it on purpose,” the 55-year-old tells Eurosport. German national coach Barbara Rittner (50) shares Becker’s opinion: “A warning would have been enough, because the girl’s goal wasn’t particularly aggressive or harsh.”

According to Rittner, the referee really only wanted to give a warning, but changed his mind after the opponents pointed out that the girl was crying after the goal. “I’m sorry about that,” says Rittner.

It’s good for Zverev

Player Mischa Zverev (35) sees it differently: “It’s a decision you have to accept because it’s in line with the rules.” Alexander Zverev’s brother talks about the rule that says disqualifications must be pronounced if an official is shot on the field, ball kids being one of them. According to Zverev, the girl’s reaction spoke volumes.

The beneficiaries of the incident are Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo and her Czech doubles partner Marie Bouzkova. They are in the quarterfinals of Roland Garros without a fight. (byl)

Source : Blick