Fognini kicked out of US Open after foul-mouthed rant

The 30-year-old Fognini lashed out at female umpire Louise Engzell with a series of misogynistic insults during his first round loss in singles to fellow Italian Stefano Travaglia. He and compatriot Simone Bolelli had reached the third round of the men’s doubles but tournament organizers have now axed him from the event. Fognini, the world number 26, had already been fined $24 000 for the incident earlier in the week. 

“Pursuant to the Grand Slam Code of Conduct, Fabio Fognini is hereby provisionally suspended from further participation in the US Open pending a final determination whether a major offense has been committed during his first round singles match,” said a tournament statement. 

“The provisional suspension is with immediate effect and, therefore, Fognini has been withdrawn from his upcoming doubles match. “There will be no further public comment concerning this matter until the major offense process is completed.” 

Fognini has a controversial history over his on-court behavior and was handed a record fine of $27,500 at Wimbledon in 2014. He apologised on social media for his outburst at Engzell.