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Piotr Szczerek, a Polish businessman whose actions at the US Open ignited global backlash, has issued a public apology after being filmed taking a signed cap from a young fan.
Szczerek, the head of paving company Drogbruk, was caught on video reaching for a hat that tennis star Kamil Majchrzak had appeared to hand to a child following his second-round victory. The clip quickly spread across social media, prompting harsh criticism of the 50-year-old executive.
In a lengthy statement posted to Instagram, Szczerek acknowledged his "serious mistake" and apologized directly to the boy, his family, the fans, and Majchrzak himself. He explained that in the excitement after the Polish player's win, he believed the hat was intended for him to pass on to his own sons.
"It is a painful but necessary lesson in humility," he wrote. "For years, I have supported children and young athletes, but one careless moment can erase that good. I will now dedicate myself even more actively to initiatives that help young people and counter hate."
The incident provoked strong reactions in Poland, where users on professional networking sites denounced Szczerek as a "thief" and "disgrace." He insisted neither he nor his family had commented publicly until Monday, dismissing viral fake posts circulating in his name.
Majchrzak, who had just defeated ninth seed Karen Khachanov when the confusion unfolded, described it as an unfortunate misunderstanding. "I was tired and excited after my win. I pointed toward the crowd, but clearly there was confusion. I think the man acted in the heat of the moment," he told reporters.
The tennis player later met the boy, presenting him with a replacement cap and additional gifts. Photos of the smiling child circulated widely, softening the narrative around the incident.
Szczerek and his wife founded Drogbruk in 1999, and the company has sponsored Polish for years. Despite the apology, the controversy remains a reminder of how a brief lapse in judgment can overshadow years of reputation-building.
