Australian Open 2015: Russian Calls Local Fans ‘Animals’ During Five-Set Loss To Matosevic

RUSSIAN Alexander Kudryavtsev accused Australian fans of behaving like “animals” during his five-set loss to Aussie Marinko Matosevic on Day 1.
But the accusation did not bother an elated Matosevic, who won his way through to the second round alongside compatriot James Duckworth in a mixed opening day for the local hopes.
A thrilled Matosevic fought back from two sets to one down to record a stirring 6-4 6-7 (5) 4-6 7-5 6-3 in front of a vocal and at times rowdy home crowd on Show Court 3.
The crowd behaviour struck a nerve with the Russian qualifier, who made his feelings known to the chair umpire after dropping the fourth set courtesy of a double fault.
The frustrated 29-year-old pointed out a section of fans that were sitting in the front row behind where the Russian’s chair was situated.
“They are animals,” the Russian was heard to say to the umpire.
The umpire got down from his chair to personally warn the fans, but a triumphant Matosevic believed it was all an overreaction.
“I don’t think they (the crowd) were (animals), I thought it was a very fair crowd,” Matosevic said.
“The crowd was unbelievable I thought and very respectful.
“Alex is a funny guy, but I think only one or two times they (the crowd) may have yelled out between serves.
“But it is a grand slam and that can happen at times.”
Matosevic will now face the formidable Andy Murray in the second round after the Scotsman cruised through with a straight-sets win over Indian qualifier Yuki Bhambri.