“If you don’t have the guts to disqualify him, then disqualify me": Christian Garin's fiery words after controversial Davis Cup collision with Zizou Bergs
ATP
A bizarre incident unfolded during the Davis Cup tie between Chile and Belgium in a tense moment. In a hard-fought match between Christian Garin and Zizou Bergs, the Belgian secured a break in the 11th game of the third set, taking a 6-4, 4-6, 6-5 lead and earning the chance to serve for victory.
Bergs reacted passionately to the moment, sprinting towards his bench during the changeover, but in doing so, he collided with Garin, knocking the Chilean to the ground and causing a heavy blow to his face.
The unusual incident led to a lengthy pause in play, as the Chilean team demanded Bergs’ disqualification due to the clear impact on Garin's eye, which the Chilean claimed was preventing him from continuing the match. However, after several minutes of heated discussion, the chair umpire ruled that Bergs would only receive a warning.
Outraged, the Chilean team, led by Nicolás Massú and with Nicolás Jarry on the bench, supported Garin as he refused to return to the court, awaiting a change in the decision. “If you don’t have the guts to disqualify him, then disqualify me,” Garin was heard telling the umpire on the broadcast.
As the standoff continued, the umpire issued a time violation warning to Garin, followed by a second warning that cost him a point. Finally, as Garin remained seated in protest, the umpire decided to disqualify him, securing Belgium’s spot in the second round of the qualifiers and eliminating Chile from the tournament.
Zizou Bergs makes a HUGE shot to break serve... but accidently collides with Cristian Garin in celebration 😮 pic.twitter.com/6H2RqRmx4m
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) February 2, 2025
Así quedó el ojo de Cristian Garin. pic.twitter.com/ZZUZDWhnvV
— Séptimo Game (@Septimo_Game) February 2, 2025
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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