Introduction to the Incident
The millionaire Polish CEO, Piotr Szczerek, who was caught on camera snatching a signed souvenir hat from a child at the US Open, said he made a "huge mistake" and has since apologized directly to the boy and his family.
The incident happened on Thursday after tennis star Kamil Majchrzak defeated Russian ninth seed Karen Khachanov.
The Backstory
In the video, Majchrzak is seen signing autographs and then removing his hat for a young boy. Majchrzak then offers his cap to the child before Piotr Szczerek appears to take it. The video was shared widely on social media, prompting harsh criticism of Szczerek’s actions.
Reactions and Apologies
Szczerek wrote on Instagram Monday, "I would like to unequivocally apologise to the injured boy, his family, as well as all the fans and the player himself." He added, "in the emotions, in the crowd’s joy after the victory, I was convinced that the tennis player was handing the cap in my direction — for my sons, who had earlier asked for autographs. It is a painful but necessary lesson in humility for me." Szczerek said he has since given the hat back to the boy and hoped that it had "at least partially repaired the damage that was done."
The Tennis Player’s Perspective
Majchrzak, the tennis player involved, described the event to the New York Post as the result of "some kind of confusion." He explained that due to his relationship with Szczerek, who sponsors his tennis federation, and the "hectic celebration" of his win, "I just missed it." He added, "I’m sure the guy was also acting in the moment of heat, in the moment of emotions." Majchrzak reunited with the boy over the weekend to give him a hat and other gifts, pictures shared on social media show.
Future Actions
Following the backlash, Szczerek stated that he plans to "engage even more actively in initiatives supporting children and youth, as well as in actions against violence and hate." "I believe that only through deeds can I rebuild the lost trust. Once again, I apologize to everyone I have let down," he concluded.
Conclusion
The incident at the US Open has sparked a significant reaction, with many criticizing Szczerek’s actions. However, his apology and decision to return the hat to the boy, as well as his plans to engage in initiatives supporting children and youth, may help to rebuild trust. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the impact of our actions on others, especially children.
FAQs
Q: What happened at the US Open?
A: Piotr Szczerek, a Polish millionaire, took a signed hat from a child after tennis player Kamil Majchrzak offered it to the boy.
Q: Why did Szczerek take the hat?
A: Szczerek claimed he thought the hat was being handed to him for his sons.
Q: Has Szczerek apologized?
A: Yes, Szczerek apologized on Instagram and returned the hat to the boy.
Q: What is Szczerek planning to do next?
A: Szczerek plans to engage in initiatives supporting children and youth, as well as actions against violence and hate.
Q: How did Majchrzak respond to the incident?
A: Majchrzak described the event as a result of "some kind of confusion" and reunited with the boy to give him a hat and other gifts.
