In a recent display of sportsmanship and defiance against online trolls, American ATP star Sebastian Korda delivered a sassy gesture toward rowdy fans during a match at Rome’s clay court. The incident unfolded as Korda faced off against Flavio Cobolli, with spectators in the gallery directing inappropriate comments not only at Korda but also at his girlfriend, family, and team.
The situation escalated to the point where Korda felt compelled to address it directly. After securing victory, he responded with a flying kiss to the audience, accompanied by a pointed comment acknowledging the disrespectful behavior directed at his loved ones. Korda’s statement, shared on Tennis TV’s Instagram post of the moment, read: “Shoutout to the fans behind me for talking inappropriately about my girlfriend, family and team for 2.5hrs. Thank you for the extra motivation.”
Taylor Fritz’s girlfriend, Morgan Riddle, a prominent figure in social media influencing, joined the chorus of voices applauding Korda’s response. Under the Tennis TV post, Riddle commented succinctly, “as he should,” accompanied by a salute emoji, expressing her admiration for Korda’s stance.
Korda’s gesture was not only a rebuke to the disrespectful behavior but also a subtle jab at his opponent. By shouting “Go Juve” at the camera, he referenced Cobolli’s past involvement in football and the fact that Korda’s girlfriend, Ivana Nedved, is the daughter of former footballer Pavel Nedved, who played for Lazio and Juventus. This choice of phrase highlighted Korda’s determination to defend his loved ones while cleverly taunting his adversary.
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The response from fans and observers was mixed, with some applauding Korda’s boldness and loyalty to his girlfriend, whom he has been with for three years. However, others questioned the appropriateness of his actions, suggesting that such behavior could detract from the professionalism of the sport.
Regardless of the varying opinions, Korda’s actions shed light on the challenges athletes face in dealing with online harassment and the importance of standing up for oneself and loved ones in the face of adversity. His bold stance serves as a reminder that sportsmanship extends beyond the court, encompassing respect for oneself and those closest to us.
Fritz in Rome, ranking, and results in 2024
WLWWLWLLWW Ranked no.13, Taylor has achieved a composed 20-8 win-loss record in 2024. Fritz is participating in Rome where he managed to beat the world no.92 Fabio Fognini 6-3 6-4.
Taylor Fritz will come up against the world no.27 Sebastian Korda in the 3rd round. Their record is 1-0 for Fritz.
Fritz conquered 1 title in 2024 in Delray Beach. The American was the runner-up in Munich (BMW Open).
The American won 8 titles in his career: 6 on hard courts and 2 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Fritz will play next in Geneva (Gonet Geneva Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 19th of May.
Taylor Fritz |
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