“Demons are back” Benoit Paire responds to tanking accusations in his first round to Cameron Norrie

“Demons are back” Benoit Paire responds to tanking accusations in his first round to Cameron Norrie

Benoit Paire

Cameron Norrie stunningly began his US Open campaign. He defeated World No. 173, Benoit Paire in straight sets. Not only did Norrie win in straight sets, but he also bagelled Paire twice. The scorecard at the end of the match was 6-0, 7-6(1), 6-0, in favour of Norrie. The first and last set only lasted a mere 18 minutes with a totally uninterested Paire in front of Cameron Norrie.

Several fans and experts have claimed that Benoit Paire purposefully ‘tanked’ the match. Paire’s fans expressed their concerns over the Frenchman’s mental health while he’s on the tennis court.

He also got into an argument with the umpire Carlos Bernardes during the second set and was seen packing his kit when he was 5-0 down in the final set. Paire later revealed the reasons for what was probably his most peculiar match ever at the US Open.

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My demons came back again: Benoit Paire reflects on his first-round 2022 US Open loss

Benoît Paire
Benoît Paire

Paire has been previously accused of tanking matches and lashing out during play. After the agonizing defeat, Paire said, “I’m going back on vacation so it was a little break between my vacations. My demons came back again.” He further added, “I’m not sure to continue the season, maybe stop there and I’ll see if I resume next year.”

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It is unclear right now if Benoit Paire is hinting at retirement but given that he has struggled with his anger before, he might take some time off.

He has also said, “I don’t even want to get angry on a tennis court anymore. It’s not a good sign. If I don’t get angry, it’s because I don’t care. Lockdown has revolutionised my life. I liked being at home. Going back to the circuit, the trips, it becomes very difficult.”

Meanwhile, it all worked out in favour of Cameron Norrie who will face Joao Sousa in the second round of the US Open.

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