Chris Evert joins debate on video review absence in Draper vs Auger-Aliassime match

Sunday, 18 August 2024 at 19:30

Chris Evert lamented the lack of technology in the incident between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Jack Draper during the Cincinnati Open Round of 16. The former world No. 1 reacted to journalist Jon Wertheim's opinions and seemingly regretted the absence of a video review system.

Evert Criticizes Lack of Technology

In a tight match, Auger-Aliassime had taken the first set 7-5, while Draper secured the second set 6-4. In the third set, Draper gained the advantage with a break and was serving at 5-4 with match point when a peculiar point occurred.

The British No. 1 received a short ball from Felix and responded with an unusual volley that seemed to bounce twice before crossing the net. However, chair umpire Greg Allensworth did not notice the double bounce and awarded the point to Draper, guaranteeing his place in the quarterfinals.

Auger-Aliassime confronted the umpire in an on-court exchange, insisting that Draper’s volley had hit the ground before crossing the net. With no video review system available, the chair umpire upheld the original decision.

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Several players and tennis stars have weighed in on the controversy, including Novak Djokovic, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Sloane Stephens. This time, 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert joined the discussion after responding to tennis journalist Jon Wertheim, who criticized the absence of technology.

"It's absurd there's no video review. When technology exists—and it does here—use it,” he wrote on X. "Hard to condemn a player for not conceding a point. But if Draper takes Felix at his word, offers to replay the point (or even plays a deuce point), win or lose, his gesture is celebrated internationally....," he added.

Evert reposted the journalist’s opinion and added: "ugh, and such a crucial point in this match...," the American former world No. 1 responded.

Jon Wertheim

@jon_wertheim

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a) It's absurd there's no video review. When technology exists - and it does here - use it. b) Hard to condemn a player for not conceding a point. But if Draper takes Felix at his word, offers to replay the point (or even plays a deuce point), win or lose, his gesture is

Tennis Channel

@TennisChannel

“It’s going to look ridiculous.”  Felix Auger-Aliassime fired up at chair umpire after he makes controversial call to end match against Jack Draper. Watch the situation unfold ⬇️  #CincyTennis

Watch on X

2:27 AM · Aug 17, 2024

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Chris Evert

@ChrissieEvert

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ugh, and such a crucial point in this match... 🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️

Jon Wertheim

@jon_wertheim

3:56 PM · Aug 17, 2024

Read 16 replies

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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