In the face of the Goffin controversy, Roland-Garros speaks out: "The authorities are there to ensure that this framework is respected."
Since Tuesday, the controversy has been escalating. Indeed, the question of the public's attitude and outbursts is on everyone's mind. As a reminder, during the first round match between Belgian David Goffin and Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard (Goffin won in 5 sets, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3), some of the spectators present seemed to have crossed the red line. If we are to believe the words of the experienced Belgian, some people even tried to spit chewing gum at him. In his own words, "it's total disrespect".
Following this match and, above all, Goffin's statements to the press, the tennis player even insinuating that this was a subject on which there was a general consensus among the players and the ATP (spectator attitudes in France), the tournament organization had to react.
In addition to a number of measures taken to curb the phenomenon (ban on alcohol in the stands, stricter stadium security protocols, clear instructions to referees to exclude spectators, etc.), Roland-Garros reacted in an official press release. Without clearly condemning its public, it was above all a call to order: "The public brings incredible fervor, particularly on the annex courts. But it's clear that this must be done with respect for all the players, and the authorities are there to ensure that this framework is respected. While it's normal for fans to come and share their enthusiasm and cheer on their favorites, this must never compromise the values of tennis and consideration for the players."
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