Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- baseless / ˈbeɪs lɪs / (adj.) – without evidence or not supported by facts
Example:My friend was with me all day, so their claim that he robbed the store is baseless.
- intoxicated / ɪnˈtɒk sɪˌkeɪ tɪd / (adj.) – drunk
Example:You cannot drive while intoxicated.
- defamation / ˌdɛf əˈmeɪ ʃən / (n.) – the act of saying or writing false things about someone to make others have a bad opinion of that person
Example:The actress is filing a defamation case against the TV host who falsely announced that she was pregnant.
- vindication / ˌvɪn dɪˈkeɪ ʃən / (n.) – the act of proving that a person or thing being criticized or doubted is correct or reasonable
Example:The witnesses’ statements are a clear vindication for the man accused of the crime.
- prompt / prɒmpt / (adj.) – quick or without delay
Example:The customer service staff gave a prompt response when I complained about their product.
Article
Read the text below.
A tennis fan who was temporarily removed from Centre Court during the men’s Wimbledon final following a complaint by Nick Kyrgios is taking legal action against the Australian tennis player for what she describes as a “reckless and entirely baseless allegation.”
During a changeover in his match against Novak Djokovic, Kyrgios complained to the umpire that a spectator was distracting him while he was serving, saying she was intoxicated and that she should be removed from the stands.
The spectator, Anna Palus, said in a statement released by her lawyers that she was bringing defamation proceedings against Kyrgios in a bid to clear her name.
“During the course of the final, Nick Kyrgios made a reckless and entirely baseless allegation against me,” Palus said in the statement. “Not only did this cause considerable harm on the day, resulting in my temporary removal from the arena, but Mr. Kyrgios’ false allegation was broadcast to, and read by, millions around the world, causing me and my family very substantial damage and distress.”
Palus said she was taking action “to obtain vindication and to prevent repetition of the allegation.”
She said any damages recovered will be donated to charity.
“I hope that Mr. Kyrgios will reflect on the harm he has caused me and my family and offer a prompt resolution to this matter,” Palus said in the statement from her law firm, Brett Wilson LLP. “However, if he is unwilling to do this, I am committed to obtaining vindication in the High Court.”
The incident took place during the third set of the match that Djokovic went on to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3). It was Kyrgios’ first final at a grand slam tournament.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Palus is a spectator who’s taking legal action against Kyrgios for defamation. Do you agree with Palus’ action? Why or why not? Discuss.
- Do you think alcoholic drinks should be allowed inside public venues in your country, like sports stadiums and concert halls? Why or why not? Discuss.
Discussion B
- Kyrgios alleged that Palus was distracting him while he was serving, so he said that she should be removed from the stands. Do you agree with Kyrgios? Why or why not? Discuss.
- Do you think that Palus’ actions greatly affected Kyrgios’ performance in the game? Why or why not? Discuss.