Garin exits Davis Cup following a dramatic collision during the match.©(@jmgmoron)
Chile suffered a controversial defeat in their Davis Cup qualifier against Belgium after Cristian Garin refused to continue playing following a mid-match collision with opponent Zizou Bergs. The incident occurred during a changeover in Hasselt when Bergs, celebrating with a leap, inadvertently struck Garin in the face with his right shoulder. Despite an immediate apology from Bergs and medical clearance for Garin to continue, the Chilean player declined to resume play, leading to a dramatic conclusion to the match.
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Bergs received a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct, but Chile’s team demanded further action, calling for a disqualification. However, the officials proceeded according to regulations, and Garin was penalized with three successive time violations for his refusal to play. This ultimately resulted in a game penalty, handing Bergs a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 victory and ensuring Belgium’s qualification, though Chile had already secured an overall 3-1 win in the tie.
In response to the controversy, the International Tennis Federation issued a statement emphasizing the situation’s complexity. The statement stated that all involved parties, including an independent doctor, followed due diligence and followed official rules and procedures. The organization acknowledged the emotional weight of the incident but stood by the decision reached after carefully considering the circumstances.
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The Chilean Olympic Committee expressed deep dissatisfaction, labeling the situation as “shameful” and pledging to support the Chilean Tennis Federation in seeking further action. The governing body insisted that such an unprecedented event should not go unpunished, intensifying the debate over handling the incident and the consequences for both players involved.
