Australian tennis player James McCabe has spoken out after an incident at the Birmingham Open that he says left his father and coach, Patrick McCabe, needing hospital treatment. The 22-year-old claimed a tournament staff member acted aggressively before an alleged physical confrontation took place near a doorway at the event. According to McCabe, the incident happened while he was preparing to warm up for a match ahead of Wimbledon qualifying events.
Allegations Draw Attention
The allegations have quickly drawn attention because they involve a player, his coach, and a member of tournament staff. Speaking to The First Serve, McCabe said his father was later taken to hospital and is now dealing with increased pain and other symptoms. He has also questioned why he has not been given access to footage from the venue. At the same time, police have confirmed they are investigating a report of an alleged assault. No arrests have been made, and inquiries remain ongoing.
James McCabe Calls for Witnesses
Speaking to The First Serve, James McCabe said the situation began when a staff member allegedly started shouting and behaving aggressively at the Birmingham Open. He claimed the individual later followed him and his father before the alleged incident occurred. “My father says the staff member physically put his hands on him near a doorway,” McCabe said.
“My understanding is that the staff member admitted to the police that he put his hands on my father, although the venue disputes the characterisation of assault.”
Public Appeal for Witnesses
McCabe has since made a public appeal for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward. He said several adults were present at the time and believes their accounts could help clarify what happened.
“The key issue now is that there were adult witnesses present, including adult supervisors,” McCabe said. “I am asking for those adult witness accounts to be properly identified, preserved and independently reviewed.”
Father's Health Worsens
The Australian player also shared details about his father’s health. According to McCabe, Patrick has previously undergone C5 cervical spine surgery. He said the alleged incident has worsened existing medical problems.
“My dad has had previous C5 cervical spine surgery and is now in worsening pain with arm symptoms, pins and needles, shooting pain, dizziness and severe pain that stopped him sleeping last night,” he said.
Police Investigation
Meanwhile, West Midlands Police confirmed that officers are looking into the matter.
“(Officials have) received a report of a man being assaulted at a venue in Sir Harrys Road, Birmingham,” the police statement said. “No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.”
As the investigation continues, questions remain about exactly what happened and whether additional witness accounts or venue footage will provide further answers.
