SKY SPORTS faced criticism after Emma Raducanu’s opening match in Madrid unexpectedly disappeared from television screens.
The Briton was competing against Dutch world No. 73 Suzan Lamens on Wednesday at the Madrid Open.
However, several viewers voiced complaints during the match, which Raducanu eventually won 7-6 6-4 in her first clay-court appearance of the season.
Fans were annoyed after the broadcast of the match was abruptly cut off due to a technical issue.
The Sky coverage suddenly switched to a men’s singles match instead.
The stream changed to show Nuno Borges in action against Pablo Carreno Busta.
And fans took to social media to express their frustration.
One user stated: “Please sort your tennis coverage @SkySportsTennis.
Another commented: “Shambles from Sky over Raducanu coverage.
A third questioned: “Why are we suddenly on a men’s match?”
A fourth wrote: “This has been down for about 10 minutes now.”
The broadcaster seemingly resolved the problem later, allowing viewers to see Raducanu secure her place in the second round.
Raducanu’s victory over Lamens was her first match since her impressive run to the Miami Open quarter-finals last month.
Before her opening match, Raducanu confirmed her intention to continue working with coach Mark Petchey.
Following the win, Raducanu discussed its importance.
The 22-year-old said: “It meant a lot to me to get my first match win on the clay.
“I mean, last year, I lost in the first round here and then didn’t play for the rest of the clay court season.”
The British No. 2 is scheduled to play Ukrainian world No. 36 Marta Kostyuk next.
The 2021 US Open champion is currently preparing for the year’s next major tournament – the French Open – which commences on May 25.
