Spectator sues Nick Kyrgios over '700 drinks' accusation during Wimbledon final
The Australian tennis star asked the umpire to eject Anna Palus from Centre Court. She later said that she only had two drinks and has now taken legal action against the 27-year-old.
Tuesday 23 August 2022 22:59, UK
A spectator who was accused of having "about 700 drinks" by Nick Kyrgios during this year's Wimbledon final is suing the Australian tennis star for defamation.
Kyrgios, who lost the match to Novak Djokovic, complained to the umpire about the behaviour of Anna Palus on Centre Court.
The 27-year-old was given a code violation for swearing after a spectator called out before a second serve, and Kyrgios then asked umpire Renaud Lichtenstein to have the woman "who looks like she's had about 700 drinks bro" ejected.
Ms Palus was briefly removed from the court, and later said she had only had two drinks.
She has now decided to take legal action against the world number 26 "in order to clear my name".
"On Sunday, July 10, 2022 I attended the final of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships with my mother. It was an event we had been looking forward to for some time," she said in a statement released by her solicitors, Brett Wilson.
"During the course of the final, Nick Kyrgios made a reckless and entirely baseless allegation against me.
"Not only did this cause considerable harm on the day, resulting in my temporary removal from the arena, but Mr Kyrgios' false allegation was broadcast to, and read by, millions around the world, causing me and my family very substantial damage and distress.
"I am not litigious, but after much consideration, I have concluded that I have no alternative but to instruct my solicitors Brett Wilson LLP to bring defamation proceedings against Mr Kyrgios in order to clear my name.
"The need to obtain vindication, and to prevent repetition of the allegation, are the only reasons for taking legal action. Any damages recovered 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. However, if he is unwilling to do this, I am committed to obtaining vindication in the High Court."
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The Australian's surprise run to the final at Wimbledon was littered with controversy, including run-ins with umpires, line judges, opponents, the media and fans.
He is also facing court proceedings in Australia after he was charged with assaulting a former partner, and is due to compete at the US Open next week.