This is The Guardian.

This episode contains strong language.

Welcome to The Guardian Long Read, showcasing the best long-form journalism covering culture,

politics and new thinking.

For the text version of this and all our long-weeds, go to TheGuardian.com for a Slash Long Read.

In March, he knew it was going to be a difficult morning in the chair.

It was the Miami Open 2022, and he'd been assigned the last 16 clash between the young Italian player,

Janek Sinner and the Australian Nick Kirios.

From the start, Kirios was on edge, muttering about the slow conditions on court.

At 4-4 in the first set, Kirios made a good return on Sinner's serve.

Only for noise from Bernadis's walkie-talkie to loudly interrupt play.

Bernadis called for the point to be replayed.

You should be fired on the spot, Kirios yelled at him.

How is that possible? How is that possible?

The fourth round of Miami, one of the biggest tournaments, and you guys just can't do your job.

Unfortunately for Bernadis, that was only the beginning.

With each change of a Kirios continued to criticise the unpar, calling his performance outrageous

and embarrassing.

As the first set reached its climax, Bernadis issued Kirios a warning for audible obscenity.

Then docked him a point for unsportsmen like conduct after the Australian,

loudly said to his friend in the stands, that he could do a better job than Bernadis.

Oh!

...