The Davis Cup is no stranger to controversy, but last weekend’s clash between Belgium and Chile delivered one of the most talked-about moments of the year—and former World No. 11 Sam Querrey isn’t holding back.
Querrey, speaking on the Nothing Major podcast, blasted Cristian Garin for his reaction to an on-court collision with Zizou Bergs, calling it “pathetic” and comparing it to a soccer-style flop.
“That is so weak from [Cristian] Garin,” Querrey said. “That was the most pathetic thing I have ever seen. That was like a South American, European football flop. That was the weakest thing I’ve ever seen from Garin.”
What Happened? The Collision That Ended Chile’s Davis Cup Run
During the high-stakes Davis Cup tie, Garin and Bergs accidentally collided on court. Garin fell to the ground, later complaining of dizziness, a headache, and an eye injury. Instead of continuing, he demanded Bergs’ disqualification.
The umpire ruled it unintentional, issuing only a warning to Bergs. When Garin refused to continue, he was handed three consecutive time violations—losing the match by default and eliminating Chile from the tournament.
The incident immediately sparked outrage. Some sided with Garin, arguing he had a legitimate injury. Others, including Querrey, criticized the Chilean for overreacting.
Steve Johnson Joins the Roast: “Someone Should Have Punched Him to Make It Look Better”
Querrey wasn’t the only former pro taking aim at Garin. Steve Johnson also chimed in, mocking the photo Garin later shared on social media—showing mild facial swelling.
“They put the photo on Instagram after, it didn’t do him justice,” Johnson remarked.
Then, in a brutally sarcastic jab, he added:
“Someone should have punched him to make it look better. It was just a little red. I think he should have got up and played, personally. Garin should be tough enough to go play.”
The Fallout: Tennis World Divided Over Garin’s Actions
The tennis world remains split on the controversy.
🔹 Critics say Garin overreacted, trying to force a disqualification instead of finishing the match like a professional.
🔹 Supporters argue that Garin’s symptoms were legitimate, and that the ITF mishandled the situation.
Garin himself fired back at the critics, saying:
“It’s crazy that the ITF didn’t ask how I was doing.”
Meanwhile, Bergs defended himself, saying he apologized multiple times but never intended harm.
The Verdict: A New Low for Gamesmanship?
Was Garin genuinely injured or just looking for an easy way out? The debate rages on, but one thing is clear—Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson aren’t buying it.
One question remains: Will this incident change how the ITF handles similar situations in the future?
