The match between Shuai Zhang and Amarrisa Kiara Toth (WTA Budapest, first round) featured scenes rarely seen on the tennis court.

Shuai ZhangPhoto: Dita Alangkara/AP/Profimedia

Shuai Zhang tearfully took off from WTA Budapest

At 5-5 (15-15), Zhang (45 WTA) hit out of bounds, and the linesman thought the ball had crossed the line.

Shuai (favourite 2) began to protest and explain to the chair umpire that the decision was wrong (which was confirmed by TV replays), but the match resumed after several minutes of arguing.

Moments later, Toth (548 WTA, wildcard) hit a forehand from Zhang, prompting Shuai to renew her protests.

The athlete from China, who was picked up by the public, finished the game (the representative of the hosts managed to break), but withdrew, accusing her of a panic attack. She cried, and her opponent raised her hands in celebration of victory.

Know:

  • The last match that Shuai Zhang won was on January 31, 2023 (6-3, 6-2 against Madison Brengle, WTA Lyon). Since then, the Chinese suffered 13 defeats.
  • Amarissa Kiara Toth defeats Kateryna Beindl (100 WTA) in the 1/8 finals of the tournament in Budapest.