French tennis player Laurent Lokoli split with his coach shortly after his 2017 French Open first round incident. Lokoli, ranked at No. 663 in the world, fell just short of stunning six-time ATP champion Martin Klizan in the French Open first round a year ago.
World No. 41 Klizan appeared to be cruising to a comfortable win but the Frenchman refused to give up as he came from two sets down to force a decider before he lost 7-6 (4) 6-3 4-6 0-6 6-4. The Slovakian appeared to be struggling with a leg injury when the momentum was on Lokoli’s side but continued the match and eventually claimed the win.
Lokoli, 24, didn’t shake hands with Klizan at the net post-match as he accused the Slovakian of faking an injury and disrespecting him. The Frenchman was furious on the court and appeared to be ready to fight Klizan.
Lokoli revealed during his post-match interview that he was wondering during the match would Klizan retire since he appeared to be having big difficulties with his movement. Lokoli was given a main draw wildcard by the French Tennis Federation.
The FFT officials weren’t happy with Lokoli’s behaviour. During his interview with Tennis Actu, Lokoli revealed that his coach left him after the incident. Former world No. 207 Lokoli hasn’t received any main draw or qualifying wildcards for the ATP events held in France since the incident.
Also read: Bernard Tomic joins star-studded Kooyong Classic player field
Be the first to comment