Feliciano Lopez Denies Match-Fixing Allegations by Media

Spanish tennis player, Feliciano Lopez has denied the match-fixing allegations during a doubles match, partnering with Marc Lopez in Wimbledon 2017.

The allegations made by a Spanish newspaper, El Confindencial reported that Feliciano Lopez and Marc Lopez are implicated in a match-fixing investigation for their loss against the Australian partners John-Patrick Smith and Matt Reid in four sets 6-3, 6-7, 2-6, 4-6 in the first round of the Wimbledon 2017.

The report suggested that the fixing scandal was planned by ex-football players Carlos Aranda and Raul Bravo. It was also reported that the Police recorded the ex-football player encouraging a contact to bet on their match as they will lose their first round at the Championships 2017, as it happened.

Feliciano Lopez, however, denied any allegations on him and his partner. After winning his opening singles match at the Fiver-Tree Championships against Marton Fucsovics, Feliciano Lopez cleared the rumors of match-fixing allegations on him in a press conference.

Lopez started the press conference clarifying the false claims made upon him and his partner, Marc Lopez. He said, “Guys before I start with the press conference and with any questions related to the match, I want to read something for you. It’s very simple. I’m going to start reading it.”

Feliciano Lopez further denied any link with the events claimed by the media reports. He continued, “Following reports in media that mentioned my name and my partner, Marc Lopez. I feel it is extremely important to come to you and absolutely deny any link with the events described in relation to the allegations of match-fixing.”

“Unfortunately all tennis players are public figures and we are exposed to having our good name used beyond our control. For that reason, I will do everything within my power to defend myself against any such false accusations,” the Spaniard further added.

Felciano Lopez also revealed that the Tennis Integrity Unit suggested that there has been no investigation about their match at Wimbledon 2017.

He said, “Marc and I had immediately contacted the Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) to fully cooperate and they have confirmed that there had been no investigation about that match at Wimbledon 2017. We have full faith in the TIU and the role they play in protecting our sport.”

“I have always believed in the values of fair play,” Feliciano Lopez, who is partnering with Andy Murray at the Queen’s Club Championships said. “It has been the case during my long career and I stand for the integrity of the game, which is so important. I am now focused on giving my best, as always and play with 100% focus at Queen’s.”

Earlier in a statement, Marc Lopez also confirmed that the allegations made are false. He said, “I have never met or had any relationship with such people mentioned in the press.”