Sloane
Stephens questioned the ATP following the controversy between Jack Draper and
Felix Auger-Aliassime at the Cincinnati Open. The third-round match ended in
controversy after a questionable call by the chair umpire, which occurred just
as Draper had match point, leading to the Brit advancing to the quarterfinals.
Draper was
serving at 5-4 in the final set and responded to a short ball from
Auger-Aliassime with a strange volley that appeared to bounce twice on the
racket before crossing the net. The chair umpire upheld the initial decision
and awarded the point to the Brit, who went on to secure a 5-7, 6-4, 6-4
victory.
A few hours
after the incident, Sloane Stephens took to social media to share her
perspective on the situation. The former US Open champion expressed her
dissatisfaction and questioned whether the umpire Gregory Allensworth would
face any consequences.
“Serious
question: What consequences does the chair umpire face? This is 2 incidents in
2 tournaments for the same umpire. Does he go on probation? No year-end bonus?
Can’t work the next grand slam? Fine? I’m genuinely curious,” said Stephens.
Allensworth
was also involved in another controversy at the DC Open when he disqualified
Canadian Denis Shapovalov after he shouted at the crowd. At the time,
Shapovalov was playing in a tiebreak with three match points against him. Nick
Kyrgios, Alexander Bublik, and Shapovalov himself were among those who
criticized him at that time.
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.
Serious question: What consequences does the chair umpire face? This is 2 incidents in 2 tournaments for the same umpire.
Does he go on probation? No year end bonus? Can’t work the next grand slam? Fine?
I’m genuinely curious.
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