West Midlands Police have launched an investigation after Australian tennis player James McCabe reported that his father and coach, Patrick McCabe, was allegedly assaulted by a staff member at the Lexus Birmingham Open on Monday 1 June.
In a statement on Instagram, James McCabe claimed that his father was 'followed, physically handled by a staff member, and left in pain afterwards'. The incident reportedly took place in the presence of children and ball-kids, and was immediately reported to tournament officials.
The Edgbaston Priory Club, which hosts the event, issued a joint statement with the LTA and ATP confirming an ongoing investigation. They said: 'This incident involves an allegation made against a member of Edgbaston Priory Club staff by a player's coach and is currently being reviewed by an investigating officer.'
West Midlands Police confirmed they received a report of an assault at the venue on Sir Harrys Road, Birmingham. No arrests have been made, and enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 1242 of 1 June.
James McCabe, who was eliminated in the first round of the main draw, raised concerns about the lack of witness statements, CCTV preservation, and medical provision at the venue. He said he is preserving evidence for police and tennis authorities.
