In the final tie-break, with a five-way tie between Frances Tiafoe and Roman SafiullinJimmy Pinoargote, the chair umpire, penalized the American for serving late.
“No, no, no, no. I threw the ball. I threw it, I threw it. I was behind and I threw the ball, I was ready to serve. This is the norm“, the US Open semi-finalist criticized him.
“I don’t buy that, now it’s the second service“, replied the referee, who imposed a second serve on Tiafoe since it was the second warning.
Frances ended up losing the point and the match 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 (5), and after greeting Safiullin at the net, she exploded at the chair umpire.
“Fuck you, man! Kiss my ass ! (fuck you!) Seriously, dude. You screwed up my fucking game. Three fucking hours and you’re doing this. That? Because? You missed the fucking game. Great fucking job. Kiss my ass ! Three fucking hours, I’m here fighting and running for my life. And you’re doing me a second favor. “It’s really crazy,” the American shouted to him.
Given his overreaction, we expect an exemplary sanction by ATP.
ATP social media completely ignored Safiullin’s victory over Tiafoe and… that’s why.
Horrible behavior from Frances, who should expect a big fine. pic.twitter.com/LTy1ANi7Cw
– José Morgado (@josemorgado) October 8, 2024
