Fernando Gonzalez faced accusations of foul play from the beaten James Blake after progressing to the Olympic tennis final.
Chilean Gonzalez saved three match points before prevailing 4-6 7-5 11-9 in a three-set marathon.

A pulsating encounter was tarnished afterwards, however, when Blake, who beat Roger Federer in the previous round, accused Gonzalez of gamesmanship.

With Gonzalez serving to stay in the match at 8-9 Blake hit a backhand pass on the opening point which went long but the American was adamant the ball clipped his opponent's racket before landing.

Television replays confirmed Blake was right, leaving him less than impressed in the post-match press conference.

He said: "Playing in the Olympics, in what's supposed to be considered a gentleman's sport, that's a time to call it yourself.

"Fernando looked me square in the eye and didn't call it.

"I've spoken all week about how much I've enjoyed the Olympic experience, how much I love the spirit of it.

"That's a disappointing way to exit the tournament, when you not only lose the match, but you lose a little faith in your fellow competitor."

Gonzalez insisted he was not sure whether the ball touched his racket or not.

"I didn't feel anything," he said.

"It's just one point. There is an umpire. If I'm 100% sure about it, I will give it. But I'm not sure."

Gonzalez will now meet the second seed Rafael Nadal in final for the Ultimate Gold.

1:37 PM
Categories: Olympics. Author: SacHu