Tauson Hits Out Against Referee After Agonizing US Open Defeat

Clara Tauson during her face-off with Alexandra Eala

Clara Tauson loses to Alexandra Eala in a nail-biting US Open match, 6-3, 2-6, 7-6, despite leading 5-1 in the final set. Tauson expresses frustration with the umpire's decision.

“It was a wrong decision. I don't know how it's possible when the referee can see it on video...”

Clara Tauson's US Open Defeat

Clara Tauson suffered a heartbreaking defeat at the US Open, losing to Alexandra Eala from the Philippines in a thrilling three-set match. Despite leading 5-1 in the decisive set, Tauson faltered and ultimately lost 6-3, 2-6, 7-6. Her frustration stemmed from a contentious call made by chair umpire Kader Nouni during a crucial moment in the third set.

Controversial Call

Tauson's ire was directed at Nouni's judgment call when she was serving at 15-30, leading 5-4 in the third set. Tauson believed Nouni made a clear error in judgment, which potentially altered the match's outcome. This isn't the first time Nouni has been involved in a controversy; he has previously faced scrutiny for his calls in high-profile matches, including those featuring Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka at the French Open.

Kader Nouni's Experience

Kader Nouni is a seasoned tennis umpire known for his distinctive deep voice. With experience officiating major finals, including five women's singles finals at the French Open, Nouni has developed a reputation for his umpiring skills. However, Tauson's reaction highlights the intense scrutiny and pressure umpires face in high-stakes matches.

The Crucial Call

Alex Eala took advantage of a short return from Tauson on the second serve, moving forward to hit a low volley near the net. Tauson immediately challenged the point, claiming that Eala's racket had crossed the net before making contact with the ball, which would be a violation of tennis rules.

Hawk-Eye Review

The chair umpire, Nouni, called upon the Hawk-Eye system to review the point. After a thorough analysis, the technology confirmed that Eala's racket had not prematurely crossed the net. As a result, the point was awarded to Eala, a crucial decision that could potentially impact the momentum of the match.

Wow.

20 year-old Alexandra Eala defeats #14 seed Clara Tauson 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(13-11) to reach the 2nd round at the #USOpen.

Incredible win for the 2022 Juniors champ. pic.twitter.com/cn7eGWqj8k

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 24, 2025

”It was definitely the wrong decision. My coach and physiotherapist say the same thing, and my coach (Kasper Elsvad, ed.) always tells me if I'm wrong.”

“It was a wrong decision. I don't know how it's possible when the referee can see it on video. Maybe the referee felt pressure because the whole stadium was supporting her; I don't know,” says Tauson.

Clara Tauson's Heartbreaking Defeat

Despite leading 5-1 in the decisive set, Tauson lost her momentum and ultimately fell 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (7-3) to the Filipino player. Tauson's frustration peaked when she lost a crucial game on a double fault, which seemed to shatter her confidence.

Eala's Historic Win

Alexandra Eala made history with her win, becoming the first Filipino player in the Open Era to achieve a main-draw Grand Slam victory. Eala's determination paid off as she converted her fifth match point in the tiebreaker, sealing her triumph over Tauson. This milestone marks a significant breakthrough for Eala and inspires hope for future generations of Filipino tennis players.