Shuai Zhang's family friend banned from China Open after sparking ugly brawl with fan
Angeliue Kerber's win over Shuai Zhang at the China Open has been marred by an ugly brawl in Zhang's box between a member of her camp and an unruly fan.
Zhang's camp was reportedly frustrated by a fan who was aggressively cheering Kerber directly behind the box.
However, after the German's three-set victory, the cheering spilled into Zhang's box, with the Kerber fan reportedly hurling slurs at Zhang's mother while also spitting on her.
The incident was addressed in a statement by the WTA who said the family friend in Zhang's box involved in the fracas would not be allowed to return to the tournament.
Kerber fought off a staunch fightback from Zhang to prevail in the three-setter Getty
"The unfortunate incident which occurred after a match (Sunday) night has been investigated and resolved," the statement read.
"The individual involved, a guest of Zhang Shuai's father, will not be returning to the China Open this week."
Kerber looked to be headed to a comfortable win after a dominant opening set, but Zhang turned the tables in spectacular fashion, taking the second 6-1, before the German was able to finish off the local favourite.
Kerber will now face Slovenia's Polona Hercog in the second round of the tournament.
