Miyu Kato's French Open has gone from minor to major. The Japanese was disqualified from the third round of the doubles tournament after hitting a ball girl when she fired a ball away from the court during a break in play.
But today she got her revenge. Together with German Tim Pütz, she won the mixed tournament after defeating Bianca Andreescu and Michael Venus, 4–6, 6–4, 1–0 (10–6), in an entertaining match.
Afterwards, it broke for Kato who gave an emotional victory speech:
"It's been very tough for me mentally the last few days after washing the dishes. I got to use all the positive energy I had so I could play today. I also hope that the ball girl is okay, says Kato.
Players' union: "Unjustifiably disproportionate"
She continues:
"Finally, to Roland Garros, it's unfortunate with the washing up. But I hope for a positive outcome for my appeal. So that I can get my points and prize money.
The players' union (PTPA), which has 22-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on its executive committee, has said the decision to suspend Kato and Sutjiadi was "unjustifiably disproportionate" and "unfair".