"Let's not turn this hat into a global scandal. It's just a cap. If you were faster, you would have had it" - Polish millionaire reacts to hate received after stealing cap

A controversial incident taking place after Kamil Majchrzak's surprising upset win over Karen Khachanov took centre stage after a young fan had a cap stolen from under his nose by a multi-millionaire, desperate to collect the memorabilia.

After a triumphant second-round victory at the US Open, Majchrzak was unselfishly meeting fans and signing autographs, before reaching a lucky little boy who was poised to receive a special gift - the Polish star's cap. Not only would it be a very cool gift, but a massive sentimental value around it, being Majchrzak's first win over a top 10 player in his career.

Unfortunately, standing next to him was Polish millionaire Piotr Szczerek, who was identified shortly after the event occurred. He was the CEO of paving company Drogbruk and a big tennis fan. He boasts a private tennis court in his home back in Poland, and is an amateur player in his native land.

It is no surprise that Szczerek wanted to get in on the act after his fellow countryman was allocating time for his supporters. He snatched the cap from the grasp of the young fan with no hesitation, putting it into his wife's bag as the robbed lad protested. This event caused uproar on social media, with Szczerek being called out for his actions, with his fortune being used in the criticisms. Despite all of this, he posted a statement acting as the innocent one in the situation, calling out his critics, and even threatened legal action.

On Instagram, he wrote: "The recent incident during the tennis match has caused a disproportionate uproar online. It all revolves around the famous cap, of course. Yes, I took it. Yes, I did it quickly. But as I've always said, in life, it's first come, first served. I understand that this might not please some people, but please, let's not turn this hat into a global scandal. It's just a cap. If you were faster, you would have had it. Regarding the online hate, I remind you that insulting a public figure is subject to legal prosecution. All offensive comments, slanders, and insinuations will be analyzed for possible legal action."

This story does end on a positive note, with Majchrzak meeting up with the victim. He gave him a cap similar to the one he was destined to receive, and shook hands with him in a touching act.

With the scandal dominating the headlines, Majchrzak's incredible run at Flushing Meadows has been shelved to an extent, including the incredible comeback against Khachanov. The world number 76 started with a four-set victory over Hugo Dellien. He faced a much tougher test in the second round involving the world number nine, and it looked like it would be a step too far for him, going down two sets. However, he managed to break early in the third and clinched the set with his fourth set point, before levelling the match with a late break.

Khachanov got the early advantage and had three match points on his opponent's serve for the match, but they were squandered. With the Russian serving for a place in round three, the Pole showed grit and determination to force himself back in it. He survived two more match points before coming out on top in a tense tiebreaker to make it to the third round in New York for the first time since 2019.

A great opportunity arose from this, with his next opponent coming in the form of Leandro Riedi. The Swiss qualifier started the competition outside the top 400, making Majchrzak the firm favourite. However, his campaign ended in the first set due to injury. He moves up to a career-high ranking of 60 after an imposing showing.