Michael Kouame, 15, slapped Raphael Nii Ankrah across the face at a tournament in Accra in Ghana as the two teenagers met at the net to exchange the customary post-match handshakes on Monday.
Kouame, who lost the tie in three sets, said on social media his outburst occurred “after an extremely frustrating and difficult match” during which he said he was insulted by the crowd who supported the local player.
“I sincerely regret my actions. During the match, I was repeatedly verbally abused by many people in the crowd, including insults against my mother, but that does not excuse my behaviour,” he said.
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He also apologised to his opponent.
“I accept all the consequences from the International Tennis Federation (ITF),” he added.
“I will use this time to see how I can better handle these kinds of situations in the future, in a way that reflects my true personality.”
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By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse
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— KENNETH KWESI GIBSON
(@Kwesi_Gibson) April 4, 2022