New York, Aug 27: A fan yelling obscenities was removed in the fifth set of Gustavo Kuerten's US Open match against Russia's Dmitry Tursunov after the three-time French Open champion refused to play until the man was taken away.

Kuerten, who lost 7-5 2-6 6-2 4-6 7-6 (7/1), yesterday said the man began hollering at him during the last set and that he didn't feel safe.
"I was a little bit scared," Kuerten said. "When the guy started talking to me in a bad way, I talked to the umpire and let him know what he'd said to me. I didn't feel comfortable at all. Clapping, it's ok, but it's not ok once he starts talking to you in a dangerous way."
The Brazilian had a 40-0 lead in his service game when he began exchanging words with the fan who had a seat close to the court. Then Kuerten sat down in his chair and insisted security guards escort the male fan out, which they did. It caused a short delay. The man did not physically threaten him, Kuerten said, but he feared something might happen after the match ended.


Bureau Report