Home / Sports / Isner Defends Jodar Amid Ball Kid Controversy
Isner Defends Jodar Amid Ball Kid Controversy
16 Oct
Summary
- Jodar received a code violation for using profanity towards a ball kid.
- John Isner publicly urged fans to stop criticizing Jodar.
- This incident follows prior allegations against Jodar at the French Open.
During the Shanghai Masters, Rafael Jodar faced scrutiny for a code violation incurred after directing profanity at a ball kid. The incident occurred during a tense match against Botic Van de Zandschulp.
Veteran player John Isner offered a defense of the young Spaniard on the 'Nothing Major Podcast.' Isner suggested that the criticism leveled against Jodar was excessive, citing the extreme heat in Shanghai and the inherent pressure of professional tennis. He acknowledged Jodar's need to refine his conduct towards ball kids, who work tirelessly.
This Shanghai Masters controversy is not the first for Jodar. In May, he was accused of shoving a ball kid at the French Open, allegations he refuted, stating the child tripped independently.
Jodar's performance at the Shanghai Masters has been strong, with wins over Thiago Agustin Tirante, Jiri Lehecka, and Botic Van de Zandschulp. He is slated to compete against Casper Ruud in the quarterfinals, marking their first professional encounter.
