Although the seventh-seeded Chesnokov lost the replayed point, he defeated Arias in straight sets 6-4 7-6 (7-3) in the first round of men's singles play Monday.
"What I did I think was very fair," said Chesnokov. "I don't want to cheat anyone."
Chesnokov was up a set and serving with a 4-3 lead in the second set. On the first point of the game, Arias hit a return that appeared to be on the line but was called out. After the American protested mildly, Chesnokov asked if he would like to replay the point.
"I would appreciate it," Arias said.
So they did. Arias won the next two points, but Chesnokov came back to win the game.
"When I gave him the first point, I started thinking, 'Andrei, do you ever remember something like that?'" Chesnokov said. "I can't believe I did that."
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
