Hajar Abdelkader prompts International Tennis Federation to review wildcard entries

The ITF said it will review its wildcard-awarding procedures after Egyptian amateur Hajar Abdelkader lost 6-0 6-0 and served 20 double faults in a 37-minute first-round match at an ITF W35 event in Nairobi; Tennis Kenya had approved her entry.

The International Tennis Federation announced it will review procedures for awarding wildcards after a first-round match at an ITF W35 event in Nairobi drew attention online. Egyptian 21-year-old Hajar Abdelkader, an amateur, played her debut match in the tournament and lost in straight sets. The ITF described the performance as unacceptable and said it would reassess its processes. A spokesperson said Tennis Kenya, the tournament host, had understood Abdelkader was of an appropriate standard to compete. What is known: - The ITF said it will review how wildcards are awarded after the match attracted widespread attention on social media. - Abdelkader lost 6-0, 6-0 to German player Lorena Schaedel in the event's first round. - The match lasted about 37 minutes and Abdelkader served 20 double faults. - Abdelkader won three points in the match, described as two double faults and one unforced error from her opponent. - An ITF spokesperson said Tennis Kenya had approved Abdelkader as meeting the event's standards. Summary: The ITF has announced a reassessment of its wildcard-awarding procedures following the match in Nairobi. Tournament host Tennis Kenya had approved the player's entry as appropriate. Undetermined at this time.