A Tennis Spectator Removed from U.S. Open for Hitler Phrase, German Player Zverev Reacts
In a shocking incident at the U.S. Open tennis tournament, a spectator was ejected from the match after German player Alexander Zverev accused him of quoting a phrase from Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime. The incident occurred during Zverev’s match against Italian player Jannik Sinner in Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City.
The unsettling moment unfolded shortly before 12:15 a.m. ET when Zverev, seeded No. 12, was serving at 2-2 in the fourth set. Zverev approached chair umpire James Keothavong and pointed towards a fan sitting court-side, alleging that the fan had directed a Hitler phrase at him.
Zverev reported to the umpire, He said the most famous Hitler phrase to me. He just said the most famous Hitler phrase there is in this world. It’s unacceptable. This is unbelievable.
Reacting swiftly, the umpire turned to the crowd, urging the fan responsible to identify himself. Put your hand up, Keothavong demanded. Who said that? Who said that? Who said that? We are going to get him out.
Responding to the call for action, security officials were promptly summoned to remove the fan, who was identified by spectators seated nearby. The crowd cheered as the individual was escorted out of the arena under the supervision of security personnel.
Keothavong took the opportunity to address the crowd, reminding them to remain fair and respect the players in light of the incident.
The U.S. Tennis Association spokesperson commented on the incident, stating, A fan directed a disparaging remark towards Alexander Zverev. The fan was identified and then escorted from the stadium. It was clarified that the police were not involved in the matter.
Despite the unsettling incident, Zverev went on to defeat Sinner in a grueling five-set match lasting almost four hours, battling through humid conditions. In the quarterfinals, Zverev will face off against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, who holds the No. 1 seed and is the defending U.S. Open champion.
The incident has sparked debate and discussion, highlighting the importance of maintaining respect and decency in sports arenas. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility held by both spectators and players to uphold the principles of fair play and sportsmanship.
