London, June 26: Greg Rusedski was hit today with a 2,500-dollar fine for the four-letter outburst that marred his second round defeat by Andy Roddick. Wimbledon officials also backed umpire Lars Graff's decision not to replay a point on which a spectator called the ball out, prompting Rusedski to stop playing. The incident so enraged Rusedski that he completely lost his concentration and allowed Roddick to come back from 5-2 down in the third set to clinch the match 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/1), 7-5. After the crucial game, Rusedski unleashed an angry tirade at the umpire which was littered with expletives and was broadcast live across Britain in the middle of the afternoon. In a statement, Wimbledon referee Alan Mills said Graff had been "absolutely correct" in the appliance of the tournament rules covering such incidents.

The relevant "hindrance rule" states: "crowd noise, "out" calls from spectators and other similar distractions are not considered a hindrance and the point should stand as played".

After he had calmed down, Rusedski apologised for his outburst and admitted he had let his emotions get the better of him.

Bureau Report