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Viral Wildcard Debut in Nairobi Prompts Integrity Questions

The wildcard decision at the $30,000 ITF event faces scrutiny under rules that forbid paying for entries.

Overview

  • Unranked 21-year-old Hajar Abdelkader lost 6-0, 6-0 to Germany’s Lorena Schaedel in 37 minutes, winning only three points.
  • She recorded 20 double faults and an estimated 8.3% first-serve rate, with reports noting no previous professional match on her ITF page.
  • An eight-second clip of her serving circulated on X and surpassed one million views, drawing widespread attention.
  • Industry figures questioned how a main-draw wildcard was awarded, with tournament director Randy Walker urging ITIA involvement.
  • Event organizers have been contacted for comment, and there is no public confirmation of any ITIA investigation at this time.