Aryna Sabalenka booked her spot in the Stuttgart Open semi-finals by cruising past Elise Mertens in a 6-4 6-1 victory on Saturday. However, the world No. 1's triumph didn't come without controversy after a disagreement over a line call sparked a spat involving chair umpire Miriam Bley.
Sabalenka outclassed Mertens in their 11th meeting after facing a prolonged wait to start her campaign in Germany. She was slated to face Anastasia Potapova in the second round before the Russian's withdrawal, yet that didn't prevent her from displaying dominance on Centre Court. But there was an edgy moment between Sabalenka and the chair umpire as the pair argued over a line call the former believed was incorrect.
The 26-year-old asked Miriam to review the mark of a ball that she was convinced was incorrectly called, but she wasn't satisfied with the response.
Sabalenka then took it upon herself to collect her phone and take a photo of the mark in a clear show of disdain over Miriam's call.
There were no issues from there as she soared to victory, and after the match, she admitted that she could tell the chair umpire was annoyed by her actions.
"I felt how the referee was p*****, probably by the picture I took," Sabalenka explained in the post-match interview.
"When I gave her a handshake, there was a very interesting look and a very strong handshake. I've never had it before."
MORE TO FOLLOW
We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: . Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport - the official Daily Express & Twitter account - providing real news in real time.
We're also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport - offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and .
You may also like
Putin's Easter truce 'already broken' as 'Russian assault operations continue'
BGT semi-finalists - all the Golden Buzzer acts who are through to 2025 live shows
Zelensky's 9-word verdict on Putin's Easter truce as 'Russian attacks continue'
Israeli soldier killed in northern Gaza, first since ceasefire collapsed
IGIA flight delays: Closed runway to reopen in a fortnight & shut for ILS upgrade post peak summer travel season