“The way I expressed myself was wrong and inappropriate”

After the painful defeat in the final of the Chengdu tournament, 3-6, 6-2, 6-7 (5) vs. Alejandro Tabilo (28 years old, 72 ATP)Lorenzo Musetti remained in China and started its course at the Beijing tournament, where it is the favorite number 4.

Criticized by the Chinese, Lorenzo Musetti presented his apologies: “I feel full of remorse”

In the first round, the Italian had a difficult confrontation with Giovanni Mpeshi Perricard, won with 7-6 (3), 6-7 (4), 6-4. Due to this success, Musetti qualified in the second round, where he will meet another Frenchman, Adrian Mannarino (37, 60 ATP), who produced the surprise in front of Alexander Bublik (6-3, 6-2).

In the second sequence of the match in the inaugural tour, Musetti complained that several people in the stands were repeatedly coughing between his services. At one point, the 23 -year -old player made the following comment in Italian: “Mereu tușesc acești chinezi nenorociți. I always cough, damn. Cough every 3 seconds”.

Musetti's claims were translated and criticized, being considered offensive to the host audience. Later, the world number 9 presented his apologies, saying that he did not intend to hurt, through his words, the Chinese supporters.

My words were directed only to individuals in the public who repeatedly cough and disturb the game. Have never been, in any way, intended for the Chinese. It happened in a moment of stress and tension in the second tiebreak, but that is not an excuse.

I realize that the way I expressed myself was wrong and inappropriate and hurt the feelings of many Chinese fans. I regret this deeply and I feel full of remorse.

I always admired the Chinese and I really appreciate playing in your country. I returned to China every time from 2018 and I always felt well received here. I am grateful for the incredible support I receive constantly and for the many fans I have in China

– Lorenzo Musetti