Tennis superstar Fabio Fognini, was suspended from the US Open on Saturday and could face a permanent ban from all future Grand Slams.
Fognini could also face a fine of up to $250,000, if his offenses are deemed serious enough by the Grand Slam board.
The Italian’s suspension took place with immediate effect, why is why he was withdrawn from the doubles tournament. Fognini and doubles partner Simone Bolelli had advanced into the third round, before this verdict was announced.
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Fognini was fined three separate times, for $15,000, $5000 and $4000 totaling to $24,000 after he was adjudged to have shown unsportsmanlike behaviour during his 6-4, 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-0 loss to Stefano Travaglia.
He had also allegedly insulted the female chair umpire, which was taken into account. Under the sections of Article IV, Fognini’s offenses were classified as “aggravated behavior” and “conduct contrary to the integrity of the game.”
If the Italian is found to be guilty under either section, he could get a permanent ban from all four major Grand Slams, and a penalty of $250,000.
This is not the first time that Fognini has been accused of something like this. He was previously fined for $27,500 after his outburst during a first round victory at Wimbledon 2014.
If the board finds him guilty, then it would be curtains for the Italian’s promising career. He is currently ranked 26 among the male singles, and is a former Australian Open doubles champions with Bolelli in 2015.
Watch this space for more!
