WARNING: This article contains content some readers may find distressing
The tennis world has been left horrified after a video circulated of a young tennis player being brutally assaulted after a practice session in Serbia.
The graphic video shows a 14-year-old player being kicked and slapped by a male, who is believed to be her father, before being thrown to the ground and kicked repeatedly.
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The video was posted by anti-violence advocate Igor Juric, who believed the horrific incident was as a result of a poor training session.
“Another brutal (act of) violence from a father against his daughter. I was informed that this is a family coming from China. We will be filing criminal charges against this monster as well,” he wrote above the video.
“I can say that I am mildly shocked, regardless of the many terrible things we have seen, this has left the strongest impression so far,” Juric said via Sportskeeda.
“The reason for this violent behaviour was allegedly that one of the coaches, who was working with her at that moment, said that she did not put in enough effort and that she did not want to move, ie, to do what was asked of her. Allegedly, this was the reason for this crude and brutal violence that happened.”
Juric said he was aware of the pair’s identities and would file a criminal complaint, adding: “These are Chinese citizens, but I can’t tell you how many others live in Serbia. What I know is that the abusive father does not speak the Serbian language.”
Reports have since emerged that the father was identified and arrested on suspicion of domestic violence.
The tennis world has reacted with shock to the video, with players blasting the act.
Former doubles world No. 1 Pam Schriver called for Novak Djokovic to help to “stop the abuse”.
“OMG we all need to report, and press charges against this kind of horrible abuse,” she wrote on Twitter.
“Let’s ask for @DjokerNole to help behind the scenes. We all need to work together to stop abuse. Igor thanks for doing your part.”
Aussie tennis player Daria Saville posted: “This girl is going to be broken forever. If you think someone is getting physically or mentally abused please support them and encourage them to talk to someone who can help. Offer to help them find a local domestic violence agency or offer to go the police.”
World No. 12 Paula Badosa wrote: “This is crazy!!!!! The worst thing is that it is not the only case in our sport. People putting their f … frustrations on the athlete. fed up! Please report it! Much encouragement to her, I ️ have a broken heart right now …”
Former Aussie star turned commentator Rennae Stubbs added: “Wow disgusting!!! Sadly this happens ALL THE TIME but we sadly don’t have it on film. Anyone who abuses their kids is just a POS.”
Former World No. 1 Victoria Azarenka commented: “I don’t know who this person is, but wtf is this?!? People filming for this long without intervieng, absolute disgrace. And it happens so much, there has to accountability. Please report who this person is if somebody knows.”
