LLEYTON HEWITT HIT out at claims linking him to the match-fixing scandal clouding tennis, with the retiring Australian issuing a warning to those making allegations against his name.
This year’s Australian Open has been overshadowed by allegations of corruption on the playing circuit, following a joint investigation undertaken by Buzzfeed News and the BBC.
The identities of the players reportedly involved remain unknown, which has sparked curiosity online, with Hewitt’s name the latest to be thrown into the mix.
Former world number one Hewitt was asked about the accusations and having to address the issue during the Australian Open, and the 34-year-old two-time grand slam champion reacted strongly.
“I think it’s a joke to deal with it. Obviously there’s no possible way,” Hewitt said after he bid farewell to the sport in a playing capacity following his straight-sets loss to David Ferrer in the second round on Thursday.
“I know my name’s now been thrown into it. I don’t think anyone here would think that I’ve done anything corruption or match fixing. It’s just absurd.
“For anyone that tries to go any further with it, then good luck. Take me on with it. It’s disappointing.
“I think throwing my name out there with it makes the whole thing an absolute farce.”
