American tennis star Ryan Harrison accused of racially abusing Donald Young during New York Open match

Young called out Harrison on social media, but the world No. 43 denies the allegations

Tuesday 13 February 2018 14:01 GMT
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Ryan Harrison was accused by compatriot Donald Young of making offensive remarks
Ryan Harrison was accused by compatriot Donald Young of making offensive remarks (Getty)

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World No. 43 Ryan Harrison has been accused of racially abusing fellow American Donald Young during a New York Open match on Monday.

Sixth-seed Harrison was the 6-3, 7-6 victor in Uniondale, New York, and vigorously denies the claims.

"I'm shocked and disappointed, Ryan Harrison, to hear you tell me how you really feel about me as a black tennis player in the middle of our NY match," the 28-year-old Young said on Twitter after the conclusion of the match.

"I thought this was supposed to be an inclusive gentleman's sport."

The pair had argued on-court during the first set and had to be separated by officials.

Harrison responded via the same medium, posting:

"The accusations made by Donald Young tonight following our match are absolutely untrue. I'm extremely disappointed that someone would say this in reaction to a lost tennis match," said the 25-year-old.

"Any video/audio will 100% clear me and I encourage anyone with the available resources to find it."

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