The Davis Cup Qualifier tie between Belgium and Chile has provoked a strong reaction after an incident in what turned out to be the final match.
Umpire Carlos Ramos issued a statement at the Davis Cup, after Zizou Bergs collided with opponent Cristian Garin in response to getting an important break of serve.
This was not the only moment of controversy from the first qualifier round, with Arthur Fils being criticized at the Davis Cup in France’s tie against Brazil.
The Davis Cup Qualifiers featured multiple top 20 players, but Novak Djokovic was unable to represent Serbia.
Denmark came from behind to beat Djokovic’s nation, leading to the Serbian team being criticized for their reaction.
Martina Navratilova reacts to Davis Cup incident between Zizou Bergs and Cristian Garin
The incident between Bergs and Garin has prompted a strong reaction, and comparisons to Novak Djokovic have been made by some.
Garin was unable to continue playing after being knocked to the ground by Bergs, with Belgium being awarded the win after a game penalty was awarded.
Former world number one Martina Navratilova is one of many to have reacted to this situation, claiming that Bergs should have been disqualified.
However, the 68-year-old also suggested that Garin’s reaction was also a bit exaggerated for her liking.
“I am sorry- that should be a default. Out of control,” Navratilova said on X (formerly known as Twitter). “Mind you the screaming is not great either.”
What has Cristian Garin said following the incident?
Garin has since had his say on the situation, responding to the way that the incident was handled by officials.
“So the player is injured and can’t continue to play but we do like nothing happened,” Garin said on Instagram. “Wow what a beautiful world and what a great mentality.”
The former world number 17 then followed this statement up with an image of his bruised face, showing the damage that had been done by Bergs.
Garin and Chile will now have to work their way back up from the World Group I, with the next ties taking place in September.
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