MAX PURCELL raged about a ballgirl after he was distracted during a point at the Australian Open.
The world No40 defeated Mate Valkusz 3-6 7-6 6-4 7-5 in the first round of the Grand Slam.
Stan Sport TVThe ballgirl can be seen walking off to the right of the court[/caption]
Stan Sport TVMax Purcell angrily complained to the umpire[/caption]
But the local favourite’s victory was marred by a shocking on-court outburst as he hit out at a ballgirl.
Purcell, 25, claimed he was distracted during a point in the fourth set and fumed at the umpire.
The ballgirl seemingly lost track of the score, picking up her water bottle and departing the court while play was continuing.
Her movement was spotted by Purcell as he hit his forehand into the net.
The player furiously complained to the umpire: “He has literally hit the serve and the ball kid started walking off the court.
“Did you see her? She literally picked up a drink bottle and started walking around.”
He then turned to Valkusz and said: “Don’t worry it’s your point.”
Purcell, who won the men’s doubles title at Wimbledon in 2022, recomposed himself to seal a spot in the second round.
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He will face three-time Grand Slam runner-up Casper Ruud next.
Purcell’s angry outburst is not the first fans have seen at this year’s Australian Open.
Pavel Kotov left a ballgirl cowering in fear after firing a ball into the back fence in frustration.
And legend Novak Djokovic launched an X-rated rant at spectators in the stands.
EPAMax Purcell calmed down and sealed victory in four sets[/caption]