Reaction from Fenerbahçe to Ergin Ataman: Divisive, polarizing, and despicable act
The '3-1' gesture made by Ergin Ataman following the friendly match between Panathinaikos and Galatasaray has sparked a major backlash from Fenerbahçe. Fenerbahçe General Secretary Burak Kızılhan used harsh language toward Ataman, while Ataman later issued an apology via social media.
Panathinaikos Head Coach Ergin Ataman made a reference to Fenerbahçe with a '3-1' gesture following the friendly match played against Galatasaray.
Ataman's gesture drew significant backlash within the Fenerbahçe community. The Greek team, Panathinaikos, had won the match played at the Sinan Erdem Sports Hall 85-56. Ataman's post-match gesture was interpreted as a derby taunt directed at Fenerbahçe.
'DIVISIVE, POLARIZING, AND DESPICABLE ACT'
Fenerbahçe General Secretary Burak Kızılhan responded harshly to Ergin Ataman. Speaking during a sponsorship agreement event for the Fenerbahçe Women's Basketball Team, Kızılhan criticized Ataman's actions and stated the following:
"We have held internal consultations regarding the divisive, polarizing, and despicable act of that individual, whose name I do not even wish to mention, which does not befit the identity of a national team coach. We have spoken with the relevant parties, and our community should rest assured. We will take the necessary actions and make our announcements very shortly."
ERGIN ATAMAN APOLOGIZED
Following the backlash, Ergin Ataman released a statement via his social media account, apologizing to the Fenerbahçe community. In his post, Ataman included the following remarks:
"Last night, after the friendly match played against Galatasaray, I performed my classic fist-pump celebration in response to the fans' interest. Afterward, I made the '3-1' gesture that was reflected in the press in an unplanned manner. While making this gesture, I had no intention of targeting or offending any community."
Emphasizing the respect he holds for the Fenerbahçe community, Ataman stated that his gesture was misunderstood and added:
"I am aware of the discomfort my gesture yesterday caused within the Fenerbahçe community. Therefore, I would like to express my sincere regret for the discomfort caused. I apologize to the entire Fenerbahçe community that I have offended due to the incident that occurred."
News Source: 12punto
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