World No. 3 Simona Halep addressed the report that her cousin, 29-year-old Nicica Arghir of Romania, committed suicide. Halep, who beat Daria Gavrilova in three sets in her first match at Indian Wells, says that she almost didn't come to the tournament.
“It's a painful situation for everyone, for me and for my family,” she said. "I just wanted to play this tournament because he loved tennis. He played many years tennis. So I just decided to stay here, because I think it was a little bit easier for me to pass this situation. It's hard to speak about this, and I just want to dedicate this match to him, because, he loved tennis and he was very talented.''
Halep did not say much more, explaining, "I don't think I want to speak about this. It's too painful. It's a big tragedy in my family.”
Halep did say, however, that she wants to continue living at Romania, even though some other players have left and gone elsewhere. The 23-year-old is one of the country’s most popular athletes. “Everyone is supporting me, and many Romanians are coming to watch my matches,” she said. “Romania is a small country and we don't have like many top tennis players in this moment. I'm like I can say a star. Everyone is recognizing me on streets everywhere I go in Romania. It's not easy, but it's nice. I have to enjoy this moment. It's the best moment of my life, so I really want to thank them for coming and for supporting me.”