Paul found it weird playing Opelka, in what was their first ATP meeting, which the former won 7-6(7-3), 6-2.

But much of the focus remains on the latter’s outburst against Norrie, where Opelka stopped mid-serve while serving for the match to speak to a fan.

Asking him if he was coughing on purpose with the score at 30-30, the American then asked the fan to leave in an expletive-laden rant.

Reilly Opelka set for ATP disciplinary action after Dallas Open outburst

Chair umpire Greg Allensworth handed Opelka a point penalty for the outburst, with Opelka calling Allensworth the “worst umpire on tour” after the match.

An ATP spokesperson has shared an update on the situation, telling Reuters: “Audible obscenities directed at members of the public constitute a clear violation of ATP rules.

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“In such instances, the chair umpire has a responsibility to take appropriate action, regardless of the match score. The ATP will review Mr Opelka’s post-match comments as part of its standard disciplinary process.”

The publication added that Opelka can expect a $5,000 fine for each violation, having been handed a code violation and then a point penalty for two audible obscenities.

Tommy Paul and Reilly Opelka fly American flag at Dallas Open after early exits

Allensworth certainly has a history with annoying ATP stars, with Opelka now joining the likes of Denis Shapovalov and Taylor Fritz in having an issue with the umpire.

It remains to be seen what action will be taken towards Opelka following the incident, but he certainly wasn’t happy.

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Ultimately, the violation didn’t cost him on the court as he made it past Norrie, with his tournament then ending against third seed Paul shortly after.

Paul meanwhile lost his semi-final to Shapovalov, with the Canadian setting up a Dallas Open final against Casper Ruud.

A non-American winner will soon be crowned in Dallas, with home favourites Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe and top seed Fritz all suffering shock early exits.

Amid those disappointing US runs, Paul continued his impressive feats at the tournament, having won the Dallas Open in 2024.

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