Multiple matches at the Italian Open was suspended on Monday as protesters stormed two of the outside courts while a third demonstration was prevented from taking place on Grandstand. Madison Keys and Sorana Cirstea were among the players forced to stop following the incidents.
The two identical protests took place within minutes of each other at the Foro Italico. Keys was leading by a set and 3-1 when two demonstrators ran onto the court throwing confetti.
Boos rang out across the Pietrangeli court as one protester stood by the net and put on a hi-vis jacket before security guards ran over and carried him off the court, with Keys and Cirstea watching from their benches. Both players reconvened at the net with the umpire as court attendants worked to sweep away the confetti.
But it was a tricky job with the pieces getting stuck in the clay, and the match was suspended. Moments later, the same thing happened on Court 12 where fifth seeds Edouard Roger-Vasselin and Santiago Gonzalez were facing Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic in an ATP doubles match.
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
Leave a comment