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'Why should I?': Alexei Popyrin receives handshake rejection after perceived poor sportsmanship

Alexander Bublik completely ignores Alexei Popyrin after winning his match at the Paris Masters (ATP).
Alexander Bublik completely ignores Alexei Popyrin after winning his match at the Paris Masters (ATP).

Alexei Popyrin suffered his fourth consecutive defeat overnight, as he bowed out in the first round of the Paris Masters to Alexander Bublik.


Popyrin, who hasn't registered a win since the opening round of the US Open at the end of August, was outclassed 4-6, 3-6 in the French capital.


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But it was Bublik's actions post-match that caused a stir, when he walked straight to the chair umpire after match point without shaking Popyrin's hand.


The crowd inside Court 1 was left far from impressed, as they dished out a chorus of boos.



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When asked about the incident, Bublik referred to Popyrin celebrating two net-cords without issuing an apology.


"There's tennis etiquette... If [my opponent] doesn't follow it, why should I?" Bublik said in Russian during a post-match interview.


There was better news on the Aussie front for qualifier Aleksandar Vukic, who conquered France's Terence Atmane 6-4, 2-6, 6-4.


The victory sets up a clash against fourth seed Taylor Fritz.


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