Why Chilean Tennis Player Cristian Garin Lost His Davis Cup Match in an ‘Unusual Way’

Chilean tennis player Cristian Garin lost his Davis Cup qualifier in an unusual way after refusing to continue playing following an accidental collision with his opponent, Belgium’s Zizou Bergs.

The incident happened during the third set when Bergs was celebrating after winning a game. As he ran towards his bench, Garin was passing through the narrow space between the net and the umpire’s chair. The two players collided, with Bergs’ shoulder striking Garin in the eye.

Bergs, 25, immediately apologised, and Garin, 28, received medical attention. However, the Chilean player called for Bergs to be disqualified. The umpire instead gave Bergs a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Garin refused to resume play and remained on the bench. As a result, he was handed three consecutive time violations, which led to a game penalty. This decision meant he lost the set and the match without returning to the court.

Bergs won the match 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, securing Belgium’s place in the second round of Davis Cup qualifying.

Following the incident, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) released a statement calling it a “rare, unfortunate, and delicate situation.” The ITF said all rules and procedures were followed before making the final decision.

Chile’s Olympic committee expressed its outrage on social media, stating it was “upset and incredulous” over the outcome. The committee pledged to support the Chilean tennis federation in ensuring that “this shameful international incident does not go unpunished.”

Bergs is currently ranked 61st in the world, while Garin is ranked 132nd.

The Davis Cup, featuring teams from 150 countries, is the world’s biggest annual team event in tennis. The tournament’s final will take place in November.