The controversy surrounding Romania’s Fed Cup tie with Great Britain has reached a new level with the Head of Romanian tennis formally sending a ‘memorandum’ to the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
During an exclusive interview with Dolce Sports, George Cosac confirmed that he has consulted with lawyers following recent events. On Saturday Ilie Nastase was suspended from the tie after he was heard swearing at the British camp. The incident came a day after he made a tasteless joke about Serena Williams’ unborn child.
In light of Nastase’s antics, the ITF has provisionally suspended the former world No.1. He is now prohibited from entering on the grounds of any ITF event, but the 70-year-old still turned up the venue on Sunday to eat a meal in the VIP Lounge. A move that bemused the British team captain.
“If someone’s accreditation is taken away from them you’d think that would be it,” said Anne Keothavong. “There’s no point having a rule book if you don’t stick to the rules. We haven’t crossed paths and as far as I’m concerned yesterday was the end of it.”
Despite the controversy, Cosac has pledged his full support behind Natase. Pointing out that the ITF is yet to make a ‘definitive’ decision, the former Davis Cup player has presented his own account of what happened.
“He has not been a killer, no definitive decision has been made at the international federation.” Said Cosac. “The Romanian Tennis Federation, along with the lawyers, will send a memorandum to the international federation, that last night I have also reviewed different phases.”
Cosac’s defence of the controversial character illustrates Nastase’s power in the world of Romanian tennis. Whilst addressing the issue, the Tennis president admitted that he was still unsure of what exactly happened in the tie before trying to justify the Fed Cup captain.
“I have not talked to Ilie Năstase about all the problems, I’m sure he’s sorry for what happened. I do not know what exactly happened, what happened. I know six bouquets with big flowers was sent to the team of Great Britain after the game, not before the match, so as not to be interpreted or morally affected in any way, and we will see what will be decided, “ He said.
Keothavong loving her flowers from Nastase pic.twitter.com/t4RXVxgJW4
— Eleanor Crooks (@EleanorcrooksPA) 23 April 2017
Information via Digi24.ro has also revealed that the British camp has been accused of breaking competition rules. Cosac claims that the British team left the court whilst the umpire and referee was talking, which is against the rules.
The British team is yet to respond to the appeal and Cosac’s allegations.
