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Monday, May 13 Agassi could face fine for late withdrawal Associated Press |
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HAMBURG, Germany -- Andre Agassi pulled out of the German Open on Monday, a day after winning his first tournament in Rome. He faces an automatic fine for the late withdrawal. Agassi beat Germany's Tommy Haas 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 on Sunday to win the Italian Open. In a letter sent to Hamburg event organizers, Agassi said the Rome win forced him to reconsider playing in Germany. "After winning my first Tennis Masters Series event on clay, I believe that I need to make scheduling decisions that address the entire year that lies ahead," Agassi wrote. "My decision does not reflect on the Tennis Masters Series -- Hamburg tournament. The tournament in Hamburg has a wonderful field and will be supported by knowledgeable and enthusiastic fans. I wish the tournament much success and look forward to playing it in the future." Agassi, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, was seeded ninth for the Hamburg tournament and had been scheduled to play Spanish qualifier David Sanchez on Tuesday. The fine against Agassi will not be levied until the start time for that match Tuesday. Agassi can appeal. Players are automatically fined if they withdraw later than the Friday before the start of a tournament, an ATP spokesman said. |
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