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“Bring Me the Rule Book”: Karen Khachanov Furious After Receiving Point Penalty for Saying “Sh*t”

Published 08/11/2021, 11:55 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

In an all-Russian battle against Aslan Karatsev at the National Bank Open 2021, Karen Khachanov found himself in an unusual fix. Notably, he received a code violation and point penalty because he exclaimed “sh*t” in Spanish. Afterwards, he ensued in a lengthy debate over the decision made.

Funnily enough, the 25-year-old tirelessly tried to explain his intentions behind the word. However, the supervisor, Gerry Armstrong, did not flicker and stayed with the chair umpire’s call. It all happened because the apparently “bad word” was heard clearly on TV.

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Karen Khachanov engages in a verbal battle with the supervisor at National Bank Open

At 7-6, 0-1* (40-40), Khachanov missed an easy shot and shouted, “mierda.” Immediately, the chair gave him a code violation and point penalty, which brought him to face a break point.

Furious at the decision, the recently crowned Olympic silver medalist argued over his intentions behind the words. “I will not continue until the supervisor will show me the rulebook. Tell to Gerry to bring me the rulebook,” Khachanov said.

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USA Today via Reuters

Furthermore, the Russian insisted, “How do you say I have to go to sh*t?” and “For this word, I never never never in my career get a violation.” However, the supervisor, who heard and appreciated the argument, informed Khachanov that the decision would stand.

Indeed, the former World No.8 could not wrap his mind around the call. Therefore, he went to fight until he had nothing left to say.

During this, Aslan Karatsev watched over them with no care. Eventually, because of the point penalty, Khachanov lost that game to give his opponent a 0-2 lead in the second.

But ultimately, Khachanov recovered in the next game and then closed the match in straight sets. He won 7-6(7), 6-4.

Who will Khachanov play next in Toronto?

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After the drama-filled second-round match, Khachanov moved into the last 16 left in Toronto. As per the draw, he will next face third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach the National Bank Open (previously Rogers Cup) quarterfinals.

USA Today via Reuters

All in all, the Russian has a considerable opportunity to go deep in yet another tournament. However, it will be interesting to see whether he can withstand the fury of the Greek God.

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Who do you think will go further in Toronto?

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Written by:

Purav Joshi

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Purav Joshi is a Tennis author at EssentiallySports. Having a degree in Films, Television and Media Production, he guided his passion for writing and journalism into the sport of aces and rallies. With over 2 years of experience as a copywriter, Purav has authored over 500 tennis articles.
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