Rafa Hewett’s Heated Argument with the Referee: A heated quarterfinals match at the Proton Tucson Open on Saturday saw Noe Khlif and Rafa Hewett rally past Jay Devilliers and Patrick Smith in men’s doubles at the Tucson Racquet and Fitness Club. The match included a dramatic line call dispute and a stunning comeback victory.
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Controversial Call Sparks Tension
With Devilliers and Smith leading 10-8 in the opening game, Devilliers executed an around-the-post (ATP) shot that appeared to land in. Hewett immediately called it out, leading to a disagreement.
“Out!” Hewett shouted.
“No, no!” Devilliers replied.
“That’s crazy! That’s crazy!” – (Hewett)
The referee intervened, confirming Devilliers’ shot was in.
“Guys, that ball was good,” the referee stated.
Hewett strongly disagreed. “No, no, no, no, no,” he argued, questioning the referee’s vantage point.
“It’s not even close, Rafa. Rafa, it was inside.” – (Devilliers)
“Come on. That, I saw!” – (referee)
“You’re telling me you saw that from over here?” – (Hewett)
“I saw it touch the line,” the referee responded firmly.
“You saw the second bounce.” – (Hewett)
“No, I saw it touch the line.” – (referee)
Hewett remained unconvinced. “No, you didn’t.”
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Heated Reactions and Competitive Fire
On the next point, Smith hit the ball into the net, prompting Hewett to shout, “BALL DON’T LIE!” as a jab at the referee’s previous call.
When the referee pointed out the remark seemed directed at him, Hewett responded, “I can say ‘Ball don’t lie’ all day.”
“You certainly can. It seems to be directed at me.” – (referee)
The tension escalated when Devilliers attempted a Nasty Nelson on Hewett—an aggressive shot aimed at hitting an opponent before the serve return.
“Love that, Jay,” Hewett said sarcastically. “What do you think? What do you got for that?”
The referee acknowledged Devilliers’ failed attempt. “Well, he lost a serve.”
“I missed the serve.” – (Devilliers)
“You don’t have anything for that, ref?” – (Hewett)
“I missed my serve.” – (Devilliers)
“Was that intentional?” Hewett asked, further pressing the issue.
Khlif and Hewett Rally to Victory
Despite the drama, Khlif and Hewett remained focused. They called a timeout before fighting off eight game points to claim the first game 12-10. Their momentum carried into the second game, where they dominated 11-1 to secure a semifinal spot.
The intense quarterfinals match showcased the emotions and competitive edge of professional pickleball. With Khlif and Hewett advancing, the Proton Tucson Open continues to deliver action and unpredictable moments.
News in Brief: Rafa Hewett’s Heated Argument with the Referee
A controversial line call and intense exchanges marked the Proton Tucson Open quarterfinals, where Noe Khlif and Rafa Hewett overcame Jay Devilliers and Patrick Smith.
The match featured heated arguments, a “Ball don’t lie” moment, and a failed Nasty Nelson before Khlif and Hewett staged a dramatic comeback to win.
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