Greg Rusedski has escaped with a $2,500 (£1,500) fine for his on-court outburst during his Wimbledon second round defeat to Andy Roddick yesterday. The British number two lost his cool midway through the third set when he stopped playing after a spectator called 'out' on a Roddick shot which was clearly in.
Umpire Lars Graff refused to replay the point, prompting Rusedski to issue a foul-mouthed tirade. Rusedski later apologised but tournament referee Alan Mills today announced the fine and backed the decision of umpire Graff.
In a statement Mills said: "I have made a reasonable investigation into the conduct of Greg Rusedski and have decided to fine him the sum of $2,500 for his audible obscenity.
"The chair umpire Mr Lars Graff from Sweden was absolutely correct in his appliance of the 'Hindrance Rule' which states: Crowd noise, 'out' calls from spectators and other similar distractions are not considered a hindrance and the point should stand as played."
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
