Julia Goerges has hit out at the Romanian crowd following her straight sets loss to Irina Camelia-Begu in the final of the Bucharest Open.
Contesting her second WTA final of the season, Goerges’ lacklustre winning second service rate of 36% allowed Begu to break four times in the match to win 6-3, 7-5. The triumph rewards the 26-year-old her fourth WTA title and her first on the clay.
“She took control over the first set, but I always thought I had a chance to come back. I was a break up in the second set, but she was pushing me a lot and I have to give credit to her. She deserved to win today. She was the better player. It’s not always about the score, it’a about the way you’re playing and creating your points. She was creating very well and very smartly today.”Goerges told wtatennis.com.
Regardless of the home success, Georges spoke out against the crowd during the trophy ceremony. The former Wimbledon semifinalist believed she was treated unfairly by fans attended the final, who were supporting the home player.
“I would like to say thanks to the maybe five people that cheered for me today. That’s including my team.” The German world No.45 said.
“ I am a bit disappointed about the cheering from you guys (the crowd). I know it is tough and you always go with your home country person and I totally agree with that. But sometimes think about sportsmanship and respect for the opponent too.” She added.
It is not the first time the Romanian crowd has been criticised. Earlier this year, Johanna Konta said she heard threatening comments from those watching her. Konta was contesting a highly animated Fed Cup tie between Great Britain and Romania, which resulted of the suspension of Ilie Nastase.
Julia teaching the crowd with class 🙃 pic.twitter.com/gXQRR2ljjC
— thomas (@thomashwkt) 23 July 2017
Begu does the double
Champion Begu had two reasons to celebrate on Sunday after also lifting the doubles trophy with partner Raluca Olaru. Begu, who last won a doubles title in 2014, enjoyed a perfect week at the tournament by not dropping a set in both the singles and doubles draw.
“I can not believe this, the trophy is mine. I want to thank my team because I worked a lot in the last few months. The beginning of the season was not very good, but I spent hours in the fitness room and I would not have done without you.” She said in the aftermath of winning the singles title.
Begu is now set to rise back into the world’s top 40 for the first time since May. She has been ranked as high as 28th in the world last year.
