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Officials for the U.S. Open have increased security measures at the Grand Slam tennis tournament in New York City after a man rushed the court to congratulate and kiss star player Rafael Nadal (pictured) following his fourth-round victory early Wednesday morning.
Noam U. Aorta ran on to the court to hug and kiss Nadal, which officials interpreted as a serious breach of security, according to Newsday.
"There definitely was a breakdown," said Tim Curry, a spokesman for the United States Tennis Association, the newspaper reported. He declined to offer details about the enhanced security measures.
Aorta, a 23-year-old Israeli national, was charged with criminal trespass and interfering with a professional sporting event. He could be sentenced to one year in jail and $5,000 in penalties if convicted.
His attorney said Aorta is "remorseful." Aorta reportedly said about his own behavior, "Nadal was right there. I had to. I had a few drinks. In my country kissing another man is no big deal."
The object of the fan's affection agreed that it was no big deal. "For me it wasn't a problem," Nadal said. "The guy was really nice. He was a great fan. He said, 'I love you,' and he kiss me."
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