Piotr Szczerek Company Faces Backlash After US Open Incident Sparks Boycott Calls

Piotr Szczerek, the CEO of the Polish paving company Drogbruk, found himself at the center of a viral controversy after being identified as the individual who took a cap from a young fan at the US Open. During a match where Polish tennis player Kamil Majchrzak triumphed over ninth seed Karen Khachanov, Majchrzak attempted to hand his signed cap to a young boy in the crowd. However, before the boy could receive it, Szczerek intervened, taking the cap and placing it in his partner’s bag.

The incident, captured on camera, quickly circulated on social media, drawing significant backlash against Szczerek. Online critics described the act as entitled and disgraceful, with some demanding that the US Open consider barring Szczerek from attending future events. Moreover, Drogbruk, known for its involvement in local sports sponsorships, including support for tennis players like Piotr Matuszewski, faced reputational damage as people voiced their intention to boycott the company’s services.

In response to the incident, Kamil Majchrzak sought to rectify the situation by reaching out through social media to locate the child and personally provide him with a new signed cap. Majchrzak’s actions were widely praised as an embodiment of sportsmanship and goodwill, contrasting starkly with the negative attention surrounding Szczerek.

Despite the unfortunate incident, Drogbruk has been recognized for its contributions to sports in Poland. Established in 1999 by Piotr Szczerek and his wife Anna, the company is known for its paving solutions and commitment to community engagement. However, the incident at the US Open overshadowed Drogbruk's achievements, with the public associating the brand more with the viral episode than its support for local athletics.

This episode has sparked broader discussions about sportsmanship and the responsibilities of public figures and business leaders in maintaining a positive image not just for themselves, but also for the organizations they represent. The incident has left a lasting impression and serves as a reminder of the public's power to hold individuals accountable for their actions, whether on or off the court.