Wimbledon spectator takes legal action against Nick Kyrgios for having her removed during final

Nick Kyrgios complained to the umpire during his Wimbledon final against Novak Djokovic, saying that a drunk fan had been talking to him during points. The fan, who was removed from the arena, is taking action against the Australian for the ‘baseless allegation’

August 23, 2022 08:27 pm | Updated 08:27 pm IST - LONDON

Australia’s Nick Kyrgios reacts as he plays Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final. A spectator who Kyrgios complained about is taking legal action against him for defaming her

Australia’s Nick Kyrgios reacts as he plays Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final. A spectator who Kyrgios complained about is taking legal action against him for defaming her | Photo Credit: AP

A tennis fan is taking legal action against Nick Kyrgios after he accused her of being "drunk out of her mind" during his defeat in this year's Wimbledon final.

In a statement released by her solicitors on Tuesday, Anna Palus said the 27-year-old Australian had defamed her by making "a reckless and entirely baseless allegation"

"Not only did this cause considerable harm on the day, resulting in my temporary removal from the arena, but Mr. Kyrgios's false allegation was broadcast to, and read by, millions around the world, causing me and my family very substantial damage and distress," she said.

Kyrgios, well known for his outbursts, complained to the umpire during his match against Novak Djokovic, saying that a fan had been talking to him during points.

Asked by the umpire to identify the fan, Kyrgios then said: "The one with the dress, the one who looks like she's had about 700 drinks, bro!"

Damages to be donated to charity

Palus, who said she had attended the men's final with her mother, has instructed her solicitors, Brett Wilson LLP, to begin legal proceedings against Kyrgios and says any damages she wins will be donated to charity.

"I hope that Mr. Kyrgios will reflect on the harm he has caused me and my family and offer a prompt resolution to this matter," she said.

"However, if he is unwilling to do this, I am committed to obtaining vindication in the High Court."

Kyrgios was appearing in his first Grand Slam final and took the first set against Djokovic but lost his cool as he headed to a four-set defeat by the Serb on Centre Court.

He was criticised for using foul language in front of the Royal Box where eight-year-old Prince George was sitting.

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