SHANGHAI (AP) — U.S. Open semifinalist Frances Tiafoe aimed a torrent of expletives at the chair umpire after losing a match at the Shanghai Masters on Tuesday.
Tiafoe, who was a semifinalist at the U.S. Open last month, was visibly frustrated with several calls made by the umpire during his match against his opponent. The American star, known for his explosive temper, let his emotions get the better of him after the final point was played.
Cameras captured Tiafoe directing a stream of expletives at the umpire, his face red with anger and disappointment. The umpire, for his part, remained calm and composed, trying to defuse the situation by speaking in a calm and measured tone.
The outburst was met with reactions of shock and disappointment from the crowd, which had been cheering Tiafoe on throughout the match. Some fans looked on in dismay as Tiafoe continued to rant at the umpire, his words indistinguishable but his anger and frustration clear.
Tiafoe's behavior has raised eyebrows in the tennis world, with many calling for greater sportsmanship and respect towards umpires. While Tiafoe is known for his passion and competitiveness on the court, some are saying that he went too far in this instance.
The incident will likely be reviewed by tournament organizers and the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), which has a code of conduct that prohibits the use of profanity and verbal abuse towards officials. Depending on the outcome of the review, Tiafoe could face fines, penalties, or even suspension.
Despite the controversy surrounding the end of the match, Tiafoe's opponent was gracious in victory. He paid tribute to Tiafoe's skill and tenacity on the court, saying that he had pushed him to play some of his best tennis.