The ninth-ranked tennis player in the world, Italian star Lorenzo Musetti, apologized for comments he made regarding the loud Chinese fans during his first-round match at the ATP 500 tournament in Beijing.

He played against Frenchman Giovanni Mpetchi Perricar and won with a score of 7-6 (7-3), 6-7 (4-7), 6-4.

“Dear Chinese fans! I would like to sincerely apologize for what I said yesterday in a moment of anger during the match.

My remarks were directed at just a few individuals in the stands who were constantly coughing and disrupting the game. They were not aimed at Chinese fans as a whole. This occurred during a tense and stressful moment in the second set tiebreak, but that is still no excuse. I recognize that my words were inappropriate and hurt the feelings of many Chinese supporters. I deeply regret this and feel a sense of profound remorse.

I have always admired the Chinese people and am very happy to play in your country. I have been coming to China since 2018 and have always felt like a welcome guest here. I am grateful for the incredible support I consistently receive and for the many fans I have in China.

Once again, I offer my heartfelt apologies. I have great respect for you, feel at home here, and appreciate the warmth and kindness you have always shown me. With respect and gratitude, Lorenzo,” Musetti wrote on his personal social media page.