Turkish tennis player Zeynep Sonmez praised for quick action during Australian Open
During her first-round match against Ekaterina Alexandrova at the Australian Open, Turkish tennis player Zeynep Sonmez garnered significant attention for her prompt response when a ball girl collapsed, reports BritPanorama.
The incident occurred at Melbourne Park when the young ball girl fainted next to the umpire’s chair while Alexandrova was serving in the second set. In a remarkable display of composure and altruism, Sonmez quickly set aside the competitive demands of the match to assist the stricken girl.
Sonmez aided the visibly disoriented ball girl, guiding her toward the sidelines for medical attention. The incident was exacerbated by the sweltering conditions at Melbourne Park, with temperatures soaring to 28 degrees Celsius on the tournament’s opening day.
After falling beside the official’s position, the ball girl managed to regain her footing before Sonmez stepped in to support her. The Turkish player acted without hesitation, escorting the dazed girl off the court to safety.
Medical personnel then took over, ensuring the ball girl received proper care. The episode resulted in a six-minute stoppage in play, drawing attention from tennis fans and commentators alike. Many took to social media platform X to praise Sonmez, with reactions ranging from “Class act from Sonmez” to “Big respect to her.”
Responses highlighted the humanitarian aspect of her response, with one fan noting, “It is very nice and rare to behave humanely without losing your humanity.” The outpouring of admiration reflects widespread appreciation for Sonmez prioritising the welfare of the young attendant over the match itself.
Fortunately, the ball girl reportedly received further treatment at the venue before being allowed to return home. Following the incident, play resumed, and Sonmez retained her focus, ultimately defeating Alexandrova in a closely contested match. Sonmez won the opening set 7-5, lost the second 6-4, but secured her victory in the decider with a score of 6-4, progressing to the next round of the Grand Slam tournament.
Such moments remind us that even in the high-stakes world of tennis, kindness and compassion can prevail, illuminating the human spirit amid competition.
