Protesters interrupted the Davis Cup quarterfinals between Croatia and Spain in Malaga on Wednesday.
After Borna Coric’s 6-4, 7-6 (4) win over Roberto Bautista Agut, chaos ensued as two climate activists stormed the field of play.
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The protesters rushed to the court attempted to tie themselves to the net before security caught up.
Five members of security tackled the man and woman, who laid down on the court and had to be dragged away by the arms.
… #DavisCupFinals pic.twitter.com/7xik6hGiMh
— Raquel Bermúdez (@_raqqqq) November 23, 2022
The two protesters wore shirts that read “Futuro Vegetal,” the name of a Spanish direct action group focused on combating the climate crisis via plant-based eating.
The incident once again raised concerns over security during tennis matches.
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It was the third instance of protesters gaining access to the court at a major tennis event this year.
Similar incidents happened at this year’s Australian Open and the Laver Cup.
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At the Laver Cup in London, a spectator ran onto the court and attempted to set fire to the playing surface.
The interruption apart, Croatia scored a hard-fought 2-0 win over Spain to advance to the semifinals.
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Marin Cilic rallied to defeat Pablo Carreno Busta 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (5) in 3 hours and 13 minutes to seal victory.
