The Belgian Tennis Federation reacts to the Davis Cup incident: "We call for calm and objectivity".
Reactions are pouring in after the incident in the first round of the Davis Cup play-offs between Belgium and Chile.
In the fourth match between Zizou Bergs and Cristian Garin, the former collided with his opponent at the changeover after breaking at 5-5 in the third set.
After refusing to resume play, Garin, with an eye injury and dizziness, ended up losing on the referee's decision, and Belgium took the opportunity to qualify for the next round against Australia.
After the Chilean tennis federation's statement, its Belgian counterpart also gave its version of events in a press release.
"The Belgian Tennis Federation regrets that the exciting Davis Cup match between Belgium and Chile came to an abrupt end after an unfortunate collision between Zizou Bergs and Cristian Garin during a side change.
As far as the facts are concerned, it was a moment of recklessness on the part of Zizou, who was carried away by his enthusiasm after securing what appeared to be a decisive break in the match.
There was no malicious intent on his part. Carlos Ramos, one of the most experienced chair umpires on the international circuit, followed protocol and made his decision accordingly.
Indeed, it was an unfortunate accident and therefore an unintentional action, which explains why Zizou received a warning, as stipulated by ITF regulations", says the European country's federation.
"Zizou immediately apologized on court and took the time to enquire about Garin's state of health.
He's a real team player with a reputation for being in a very good frame of mind. Thanks to his fair play, Zizou is highly respected and appreciated not only as a player, but also as a man off the court.
As the Belgian Tennis Federation, our main concern is Garin's well-being, and we hope he has recovered well.
Moreover, a few hours after this emotionally-charged day, we appeal for calm and objectivity.
We offer our full support to Zizou and the rest of the Belgian team. We would also like to congratulate the Chilean team on this intense Davis Cup week, as well as all the fans gathered in Hasselt.
Finally, we congratulate the Belgian team on qualifying for the next round of the Davis Cup play-offs", she concludes.
