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Liudmila Samsonova severely attacked the organizers of the National Bank Open, WTA 1000 in Montreal, after the final lost against Jessica Pegula. The Russian player, due to the rain that hit Montreal in the previous days, had to play against Elena Rybakina a few hours before the final of the tournament.
Samsonova looked both physically and mentally exhausted and she picked up just one game in the final.
Samsonova shares furious words against National Bank Open board
The Russian explained in the press-conference: "I tried to do everything possible with my physio to recover.
After an hour of treatments, I had to play again. It hurts to realize that the tournament organizers don't give a damn about us tennis players. If it's raining, you need to do everything possible to avoid two games being played on the same day.
First final in a WTA 1000? I still can't figure it out, because it's been a tough week for me. Many matches, many experiences, difficult conditions, but in the end I got an incredible result. I would have liked to have more time to recover, but it was not possible for the organizers.
I don't quite know what to say. I immediately found myself on the court." Liudmila then said about her opponent: "I know Jessica well and her way of playing. I know she's a complicated opponent. Before the match, I knew I wouldn't have so much energy.
I really tried my best, but it wasn't enough. Everyone knew the forecast and everyone knew about the rain. They should do a different schedule. This is my opinion." Pegula also knew the precarious conditions in which her rival took the court: "My opponent had to deal with a crazy schedule and played another game with just a few hours left to go.
It's not the ideal situation, but not much could be done.Unfortunately it's just a question of the weather and the programming didn't help, it didn't go in her favour. It's difficult when you're in this condition, she's a great player and I'm sure we'll find her again fighting in these tournaments."