Hungarian Toth Issues Apology for Erasing Mark During Match Against Zhang

 

Little-known Hungarian player Amarissa Toth has issued an apology for her actions during the Hungarian Grand Prix match against Zhang Shuai, the Chinese world number 28. The match was marred by a disputed line call, which led to Zhang retiring from the contest in tears.

On Tuesday, the second seed Zhang hit a crosscourt forehand that seemed to land on the line, but the line judge called it out. The chair umpire then examined the mark and confirmed that the ball had landed outside the line.

Zhang was furious with the call and requested to speak with the tournament supervisor. The match continued for one more point, but the disagreement over the disputed call persisted. At that point, Toth walked up to the mark and used her shoes to erase it.

Zhang appeared visibly distressed during the changeover, and a physio was called to check on her. Ultimately, she decided to retire from the match while trailing 6-5 in the opening set of their round of 32 match in Budapest.

The home crowd jeered Zhang during the incident, while Toth shook hands with her opponent before raising her arms in celebration.

Toth's actions received swift criticism from fellow players and tennis greats like Martina Navratilova on social media. Zhang took to Instagram to express her frustration about the call and thanked those who supported her.

In a statement posted on the tournament's Facebook page after her defeat to Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl on Thursday, Toth said, "I did not expect my first-ever WTA main draw success to cause such controversy. I sincerely apologize for what happened. I have great respect for Zhang Shuai as a player and a person. It was never my intention to disrespect, harm, or upset anyone, especially Zhang Shuai."

Toth admitted that her post-match celebration was inappropriate and emotional. She acknowledged that her focus should have been on playing tennis and not winning through controversial means. She expressed her desire to speak with Zhang in the future to convey her regret.

Following their match, Toth's opponent, Kateryna Baindl, also addressed the issue in her on-court interview. She expressed her hope that everyone involved would remain fair, and she wished Zhang Shuai a speedy recovery. Baindl praised Zhang as an incredible player and a respectful and admirable person, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect among all players, regardless of the circumstances.