Harriet Dart Apologises for On-Court Comment During Rouen Open Loss

HARRIET DART

British tennis player Harriet Dart has issued an apology following a controversial remark made during her first-round loss to France’s Lois Boisson at the Rouen Open.

Dart, currently ranked as Britain’s number four, was defeated 6-0, 6-3 by the 21-year-old wildcard. The match saw Dart overwhelmed in a 28-minute first set and unable to capitalize on six break point opportunities throughout the contest.

During a changeover in the second set, microphones picked up Dart telling the chair umpire: "Can you ask her to put on deodorant? She smells really bad." The comment sparked online reaction and drew criticism for its perceived unsportsmanlike nature.

In response, Dart took to Instagram to express remorse for her actions: "I want to apologise for what I said on court today—it was a heat-of-the-moment comment that I truly regret," she wrote on her Instagram Story. "That's not how I want to carry myself, and I take full responsibility. I have a lot of respect for Lois and how she competed today. I'll learn from this and move forward."

It appears Boisson, who was returning to the court at the time of the comment, did not hear it directly. However, she later responded lightheartedly on social media by sharing an edited photo of herself holding a deodorant can, tagging toiletries brand Dove and joking that a collaboration might be needed.

Boisson’s win marked a significant milestone, as it was her first WTA Tour appearance of the season following injury setbacks. Ranked 303rd in the world, she pulled off an upset against Dart, who is currently ranked 110th.

The defeat continues a tough run on clay for Dart, who also exited in the first round of the Charleston Open last month against Varvara Gracheva. The Rouen Open was just her second clay-court match this season ahead of the upcoming French Open.

MICHAEL OPPONG-AMPONSAH