Musetti Apologizes to Chinese Fans After Rant
Lorenzo Musetti has apologized to Chinese fans after a rant during his victory over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard at the Beijing Open.
The ninth-ranked Italian took issue with fans during his 7-6(3) 6-7(4) 6-4 victory over the Frenchman and was heard saying “these f—ing Chinese” are “always coughing” to umpire Mohamed Layhani in Italian.
Backlash on social media prompted an urgent response from the 23-year-old on Instagram.
I would like to sincerely apologize for what I said in frustration yesterday during my match.
“My words were directed only at a few individuals in the crowd who were coughing repeatedly and disturbing the play,” he wrote. “They were never, in any way, meant for the Chinese people. It happened in a moment of stress and tension in the second tiebreak, but still, this is no excuse at all. I realize that the way I expressed myself was wrong and inappropriate, and it hurt many Chinese fans’ feelings. I deeply regret it and feel very remorseful.
“I have always admired the Chinese people and I truly appreciate playing in your country. I have been coming back to China since 2018 and I always feel very welcome here. I am grateful for the incredible support I constantly receive and for the many fans I have in China. Once again, I am truly sorry. I respect you deeply, I feel at home here, and I value the warmth and kindness I have always received from you.”
The Italian apologized to fans again after his win over Adrian Mannarino on Sunday in Beijing. He was booed by fans as he walked onto the court before the match.
Musetti’s incident is the second controversial episode in which a player has apologized for remarks that offended Chinese people. Taylor Townsend’s post about Chinese food made waves prior to last week’s Billie Jean King Cup final. The American also apologized on Twitter.
Last year Magda Linette and Paula Badosa also made comments on social media that were deemed offensive.
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