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Harriet Dart Apologizes for On-Court Remark at Rouen Open
British tennis player Harriet Dart has issued an apology following a controversial on-court incident at the Rouen Open. During her first-round match against French player Lois Boisson, Dart requested that the umpire ask Boisson to apply deodorant, stating her opponent “smells really bad.” The incident, captured by courtside microphones, sparked criticism across social media platforms.
Dart’s On-Court Comment and Subsequent Apology
The British No. 4 player, Harriet Dart, faced Lois Boisson in the opening round of the Rouen Open, a WTA 125 tournament. In a match where Dart was defeated 6-0, 6-3, an exchange during a change of ends gained significant attention. Dart’s request to the umpire regarding Boisson’s body odour was clearly audible, leading to immediate backlash online.
Following the match and the ensuing social media reaction, Dart addressed the situation publicly. “Hey everyone, I want to apologise for what I said on court today, it was a heat-of-the-moment comment that I truly regret,” Dart stated in an Instagram post. “That’s not how I want to conduct myself, and I accept full responsibility. I have considerable respect for Lois and her performance today. I intend to learn from this experience and move forward.”
Match Details: Boisson Advances, Dart Exits Rouen Open
Lois Boisson, making her first WTA Tour main draw appearance this season as she recovers her ranking from No. 303 after injury, demonstrated strong form. She swiftly secured the first set in just 28 minutes against Dart, currently ranked No. 110 in the world.
Dart offered more resistance in the second set but was unable to capitalize on six break point opportunities. Ultimately, Boisson progressed to the next round, concluding Dart’s participation in the Rouen Open.
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Other British Player Results
In related news, Sonay Kartal, the British No. 3 and eighth seed in the tournament, also experienced defeat. Kartal lost her match against France’s Varvara Gracheva with a score of 6-3, 6-2.
Norrie’s Barcelona Open Campaign Ends Early
Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Cameron Norrie faced an early exit from the Barcelona Open. The British player was defeated by Russia’s Karen Khachanov, the world No. 27, in a match that extended to three sets. The final score was 6-7 (3), 6-4, 6-3 in favour of Khachanov.
Barcelona Open Match Summary: Norrie vs. Khachanov
Norrie, whose ATP ranking has recently shifted to 88th, showed resilience in the first set against Khachanov. He saved a set point and ultimately clinched the set in a tie-break. Despite a setback at the beginning of the second set, where he conceded the first three games, Norrie appeared to regain momentum, leading 4-3 with a break. However, Khachanov responded immediately, breaking back and ultimately securing the match victory after two hours and 18 minutes. Khachanov is now set to face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the subsequent round of the Barcelona Open.