Millionaire CEO who stole cap from child at US Open issues grovelling apology

The millionaire chief executive who grabbed a cap from the hands of a young tennis fan at the US Open has issued a grovelling apology after facing a torrent of criticism. Piotr Szczerek, the boss of a Polish paving firm, was filmed snatching Kamil Majchrzak's hat after the Polish tennis ace approached the crowd to celebrate his stunning five-set victory with supporters.

Majchrzak, who sits 76th in the world rankings, secured the greatest triumph of his career on Thursday, defeating Karen Khachanov in the second round at Flushing Meadows. The 29-year-old approached his fans and began signing tennis balls before a young boy, named Brock, requested his cap. Without hesitation, Majchrzak handed it over without glancing up, only for Szczerek to swipe the hat from the youngster before placing it in a bag.

Video footage of the episode has spread like wildfire online, forcing the business tycoon to confess he had committed a 'huge mistake'.

In a statement posted on Facebook, he said: "Due to the situation that happened during Kamil Majchrzak's match at the US Open, I would like to clearly apologise to the injured boy, his family, as well as all the fans and the player himself.

"I have made a huge mistake. In emotions, in the crowd rejoicing after the victory, I was convinced the tennis player tips his hat in my direction - to my sons who have asked for autographs earlier.

"The misconception caused me to pull out my hand. Today I know I did something that looked like a deliberate collection of the child's souvenir. This was not my intention, but it doesn't change the fact I hurt the boy and disappointed the fans."

Szczerek added: "For years, my wife and I have been engaged in helping children and young athletes, but this situation has shown I think that one moment of disregard can ruin years of work and support.

"It hurts for me, but a needed lesson in humility. I believe that only through actions can rebuild what has been lost trust. Again, I'm sorry to anyone I disappointed. Please understand - for my family's sake - I decided to turn off the option comments on this post."

Thankfully for Brock, he was reunited with Majchrzak the following day. The youngster snapped photos with the Polish player and was spotted sporting a similar cap to the one that had been snatched by Szczerek.

"Today after warm up, I had a nice meeting," Majchrzak posted on Instagram, adding: "Do you recognise [the cap]?".

In another post, he declared: "Hello World, together with Brock we wish you a great day!".

Sadly for Majchrzak, he was forced to retire during his third-round clash against Swiss player Leandro Riedi on Saturday due to a torn intercostal muscle.

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