Great Britain’s Dan Evans has created fresh controversy after arguing that his compatriot, Aljaz Bedene, is not a British player.
Bedene has represented Great Britain since March 2015 after applying for citizenship. The former Slovakian Davis Cup player has been living in the UK since 2008 along with his partner. Throughout the transition between countries, Bedene has been publicly backed by fellow British players, but is ineligible for Davis Cup competition. Under rules set out by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) players can represent two countries throughout their career.
Shortly after his 7-5, 6-2, loss to Robin Haase at the Madrid Open, Evans spoke about the nationality of the world No.56. Claiming that Bedene doesn’t consider himself as British, he argued that there is no conflict between the two players.
“I don’t think he really believes he’s British either,” BBC Sport quoted Evans as saying.
“It’s nothing against Aljaz. I like him, he’s not confrontational in any way – but to me it doesn’t sit well if you play for another country.
“I don’t feel bad about him, but for me, it’s a bit baffling as to why.”
It is not the first time that Evans has been outspoken about Bedene. When details about the change of citizenship emerged, the British world No.4 publicly criticized it on Twitter before later deleting it.
“So a guy is becoming British who has already played for his country … Doesn’t quite sound right to me!” He once wrote.
Earlier this month Evans also joked about Bedene’s ineligibility to represent the British team in the Davis Cup.
@russellcfuller 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 if only he could play Davis cup
— Dan Evans (@Evo151216) 29 April 2017
The has been no comment from the 27-year-old regarding Evans’ latest claims.
Evans’ clay woes continues
Once again the British player finds himself experiencing defeat on the red dirt. Evans looked destined to finally end his jinx on the surface when he reached the quarterfinals of the Barcelona Open, his best ever performance in an ATP event on the clay. Those hopes were dashed in Madrid as his second service rate of 36% cost him dearly against Haase. With the French Open starting at the end of this month, the Brit has only ever won two ATP main draw matches on the clay.
