NEW YORK -- A fan yelling obscenities was removed in the fifth set of Gustavo Kuerten's U.S. Open match against Dmitry Tursunov on Tuesday night after the three-time French Open champion refused to play until the man was taken away.
Kuerten, who lost 7-5, 2-6, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (1), said the man began hollering at him during the last set and that he didn't feel safe.
"I was a little bit scared," Kuerten said. "When the guy started talking to me in a bad way, I talked to the umpire and let him know what he'd said to me. I didn't feel comfortable at all. Clapping, it's OK, but it's not OK once he starts talking to you in a dangerous way."
The Brazilian had a 40-0 lead in his service game when he began exchanging words with the fan who had a seat close to the court. Then Kuerten sat down in his chair and insisted security guards escort the male fan out, which they did. It caused a short delay.
The man did not physically threaten him, Kuerten said, but he feared something might happen after the match ended.
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