Days After Being Disqualified for Hitting a Ball Girl, 28-Year-Old Japanese Star Rights Her Wrongs With a Heartwarming Gesture at the French Open

This year’s French Open provided peak drama as Japanese tennis player Miyu Kato found herself disqualified from the women’s doubles division alongside her partner Aldila Sutjiadi. The unfortunate incident, that occurred during the third round, altered the course of Kato’s journey. In a moment of intense competition, Kato’s shot veered off its intended path, striking a ball girl. The impact left the young ball girl reportedly “in tears”.

However, amidst the disappointment, Kato’s story took an uplifting turn as she later shared a heartwarming reconciliation with the ball girl via Twitter. Undeterred by the default, she set her sights on another category of the tournament – the mixed doubles division, which she later won.

A Remarkable Comeback: Kato Triumphs in Mixed Doubles, Mends Fences

In a surprising twist, Kato’s path to redemption intersected with the very person she unintentionally injured. The Japanese tennis player arranged a meeting with the same ball girl. Sharing their picture together on Twitter, she wished her well for her future stints as a ball girl. Also, when they met, Kato gave a special gift in appreciation for the ball girl’s understanding of the situation.

“I’m glad to hear that you are doing well and continue to Volunteer as a Ball Girl. It makes me very happy to hear this. I hope you enjoy the gift that I got you, and I look forward to seeing you again! Wishing you the Very Best!” Kato tweeted.

Despite the setback in the doubles division, Miyu Kato showcased remarkable resilience. She made a triumphant comeback in the mixed doubles category. Kato partnered up with German tennis player – Tim Pütz and won the tournament.

Miyu Kato/Aldila Sutjiadi: Disqualification from the doubles division

During highly competitive doubles match at the French Open, an unfortunate incident unfolded when Miyu Kato inadvertently hit a volunteer ball girl with a ball. The incident occurred during a crucial point, leading to the match’s disruption and subsequent disqualification of Kato and her partner, Sutjiadi. The decision, though in line with the tournament’s regulations, left Kato and Sutjiadi disappointed and shocked, as they had high hopes for the tournament.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Kato rushed to the girl’s aid, expressing her deep concern and apologizing profusely. After the match, Kato took to Twitter to extend her heartfelt apologies. She also acknowledged her mistake. Roland Garros penalized Kato by forfeiting her prize money and points, she shared.

This incident bears similarities to what occurred at the 2020 US Open involving former world number one, Novak Djokovic. During the tournament, Djokovic was considered a strong contender for the men’s singles title. However, in his fourth-round match against Pablo Carreño Busta, the Serbian player unintentionally struck one of the line judges after losing a point.

ALSO READ: ‘Unjustifiably Disproportionate and Unfair’ – 3 Years After Novak Djokovic’s Scathing Default, His Rebel Organization Blames French Open Organizers Over Miyu Kato Disqualification

Upon seeing the line judge injured on the ground, Djokovic approached her. He also raised his hand as a gesture of apology. Despite his remorse, Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the US Open, resulting in a default. Adding insult to injury, Djokovic was also required to forfeit his prize money.

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