Stefan Kozlov has apologised to a ball boy after drawing widespread criticism for his exaggerated reaction to being struck by a tennis ball.<\/p>\n
The world number 265 was competing in the first round of the Morelia Open against fellow countryman Andres Martin when the controversial incident took place.<\/p>\n
It was a disappointing start to the game for a frustrated Kozlov, who dropped the first set 6-2.<\/p>\n
He managed to save a break point early in the second set but, clearly still emotional after losing the opener, Kozlov made an unnecessary scene after being ‘hit’ by a tennis<\/a> ball.<\/p>\n As seen in the footage below, the American was walking back to the baseline when a ball \u2013 thrown by a ball boy \u2013 made contact with his face.<\/p>\n Kozlov proceeded to collapse to the ground, holding his face as a concerned ball boy, as well as the umpire, approached to check if he was okay.<\/p>\n Kozlov, who appeared to suggest that the ball hit his eye, eventually carried on and would hold his serve, but Martin would soon make light work of his opponent, securing a 6-2, 6-2 win.<\/p>\n Unsurprisingly, fans on social media were quick to criticise Kozlov for his dramatics.<\/p>\n One said: “What a horrible way to act. Making the ball boy feel small just because he\u2019s having a bad day on court,” and a second wrote: “There is no way that reaction is justified.”<\/p>\n A third commented: “That is literally insane,” and a fourth added: “What an embarrassing way to act… in general.”<\/p>\n Stefan Kozlov issues apology to ball boy after controversial incident in Mexico<\/p>\n