‘Disappointed’ Frances Tiafoe issues apology for uncontrollably abusing chair umpire after loss to Roman Safiullin in Shanghai

Frances Tiafoe lost his cool against Roman Saifullin and began abusing at the chair umpire before crashing out of Shanghai Masters.

‘Disappointed’ Frances Tiafoe issues apology for uncontrollably abusing chair umpire after loss to Roman Safiullin in Shanghai

Frances Tiafoe and the chair umpire incident (via BBC/CNN)

American tennis star Frances Tiafoe has issued a public apology to the chair umpire, the tournament, and the fans after his outburst during his match against Roman Safiullin in Shanghai. The US Open semi-finalist lost a thrilling match 5-7, 7-5, 7-6.

It has been an up-and-down season for Tiafoe, who seemed to be struggling after a poor summer. However, he and Taylor Fritz united fans across the United States with their impressive runs in New York. Unfortunately, the 2024 Shanghai Masters will be a negative mark on Tiafoe’s season.

YouTube video

I really apologize for the way I acted tonight. That is not who I am and not how I ever want to treat people. I let my frustration in the heat of the moment get the best of me and I’m extremely disappointed with how I handled the situation. That’s not acceptable behavior and I want to apologize to the chair umpire, the tournament, and the fans. I’ll be better for yall.

Frances Tiafoe on his Instagram story

The drama unfolded late in the third-set tiebreak when the chair umpire gave Tiafoe a time violation. The American initially protested but returned to the service line. However, losing the point worsened his frustration.

FS Video

After Safiullin converted the match point, Tiafoe congratulated his opponent. Shortly after, he verbally abused chair umpire Jimmy Pinoargote. Despite his apology, the 26-year-old is likely to face a fine from the ATP tour.

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Roman Safiullin plays Novak Djokovic next in Shanghai

Novak Djokovic moved one step closer to his 100th tour-level title on Tuesday. He cruised past Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 6-2 to reach the fourth round of the Rolex Shanghai Masters. It was a dominant performance from the former World No.1 in their first-ever meeting.

Roman Saifullin
Roman Safiullin (via X)

This match was much easier for Djokovic than his tough opener against American youngster Alex Michelsen. The Serb showed great form and quickly overpowered Cobolli to claim the win.

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Next up, Djokovic will face Roman Safiullin, who got a big upset in his third-round match. The Russian came from a set and a break down to beat 13th seed Frances Tiafoe 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(5) in a thrilling three-hour contest. Due to rain delays in Shanghai, fans had to wait until Tuesday to watch Djokovic play. But they were rewarded with a brilliant display from the four-time champion under the stadium lights.