Mirra Andreeva Gets Into a Lengthy Argument With Chair Umpire After Lights Malfunction at Italian Open

A highly unusual incident unfolded during the third set of a gripping match between Mirra Andreeva and Clara Tauson at the Italian Open. With the score line delicately poised and tensions running high, a sudden and unexplained switching on of the stadium lights mid-rally led to a debatable decision that forced the point to be replayed- despite Mirra Andreeva hitting a clear winner.

The moment occurred during a tense third set, with Andreeva striking a textbook drive volley winner. However, just as the ball was struck, the stadium lights unexpectedly flickered on. The abrupt change in lighting did not appear to affect either player during the rally, but the VAR was asked for by Tauson and the chair umpire immediately radioed the replay team to determine the timing of the lights.

After a brief delay, it was confirmed that the lights had turned on just moments before Andreeva’s winning shot. According to the umpire’s interpretation of the rules, this constituted a “hindrance,” and the point was ordered to be replayed.

Mirra Andreeva hit a winner but was forced to replay the point after the court lights turned on mid-rally.

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A visibly frustrated Andreeva pleaded her case, arguing that the lighting had not influenced the play and that her winner should stand. Yet her protests were dismissed, and the point was replayed.

Although Andreeva went on to win the match 7-5,6-3,6-2, the incident raised serious concerns about the subjectivity and application of tennis rules in moments of unforeseen disruption.

The incident brings into focus the gray areas surrounding “hindrance” calls in tennis. While the rulebook allows umpires to order a replay if an external disturbance affects a point, the decision is ultimately subjective- hinging on whether the umpire believes the interruption influenced play.