Navratilova calls for action at US Open after semi-final glare incident
Martina Navratilova has urged US Open organisers to address a “disturbing” glare that affected players during the semi-final between Alexander Zverev and Karen Khachanov, reports BritPanorama.
Zverev advanced to his third consecutive Grand Slam final with a 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium, although the match was marred by distractions caused by sunlight reflecting off unfinished hospitality suites. The brightness swept across the court each time spectators entered or exited, prompting Zverev to express frustration over the conditions.
“It made striking the ball a lottery,” Zverev stated, highlighting the impact on both players’ performance. In the aftermath, Navratilova called for immediate resolution before the final on Sunday, emphasizing the need for a solution to the issue.
Former British player Laura Robson, who observed the semi-final, detailed how the glare disrupted play. She pointed out that the temporary finish on the doors of the hospitality suites intensified the problem, saying, “Every time someone opened the door, you get that swooping around on the court.” Robson noted that initial attempts to pinpoint the source of the glare shifted as sunlight moved.
The issue was further compounded by spectators moving during crucial moments of the match. Robson remarked on the bewildering sight of people entering the seating area during the second-set tiebreak, illustrating the disruptive nature of audience movement in close quarters.
“It’s absolutely still noticeable to the players,” she commented, suggesting that the tournament could benefit from stricter management of crowd movements during critical points.
Navratilova proposed simple solutions, such as applying coverings to the doors, positing that resolution could prevent future occurrences. “This is going to be an ongoing problem!” she warned, urging organisers to take proactive measures.
Despite the distractions, Zverev remained unflustered, managing to maintain his impressive streak of consecutive sets won at the tournament, which now stands at 13. Navratilova acknowledged his resilience, praising his marked improvement since a rocky start to the competition.
As the anticipation builds for the final, it underscores how the demands of high-stakes sport intersect with the unpredictability of venue conditions — a reminder that even within the world’s most prestigious tournaments, challenges can arise from unforeseen quarters, quietly shaping the outcome of the contest.
