Despite Borges keeping the point alive, the umpire awarded the point to Garin, causing outrage and a lengthy debate that ultimately upheld the call. Although Garin ended up sealing the match with a victory to his name, other players, fans and tennis pundits are still reeling from the incident and have mostly come all guns blazing at the Chilean ATP icon with claims of unsportsmanlike behavior, and cheating.
L-Nick Kyrgios, R- Cristian Garin, C-Nuno Borges (Source: Imago)
Adding his two cents to Garin’s post-match opinions on the incident was Nick Kyrgios, who has some really strong feelings on the matter. Kyrgios fumed via X (formerly known as Twitter) at Garin demanding an explanation as to how he believes that he has secured the point. The Aussie is clearly not having it any other way unless his doubts are answered.
How could you possibly say you won that point? Just because he stops moving doesn’t mean he stopped the point? Best case a replay. YOU MISSED THE BALL IN THE TRAM LINE. how can you win that point?
Nick Kyrgios wrote on X
Although Kyrgios has put his foot down for a replay, there are very bleak chances of this happening. Garin now moves to the semifinal at Estoril, against Hubert Hurkacz, where he stands a chance to give his best and put the controversy behind him, momentarily.
Nick Kyrgios slams the umpire over Cristian Garin – Nuno Borges controversy in a fiery tweet
Kyrgios did not stop after replying to Garin’s comment with an appeal to replay the match. In a separate tweet, the ‘bad-boy’ of tennis also expressed his annoyance at the umpire, who he believes should be fired.
This umpire should be fired and never be able to take place in another match. Disgrace.Nick Kyrgios via X
The ‘disgraceful’ umpire in question is Christian Rask, who awarded the point to Garin without explanation, sparking outrage from Borges, the crowd, and viewers alike. The situation escalated as Borges vehemently disagreed with the call, and the crowd was all with their hometown hero.
A lengthy debate ensued, with Borges pleading his case to Rask and supervisor Carlos Sanches. Unfortunately, after hearing both sides, Sanches ultimately sided with Rask’s initial controversial decision.
