Ilie Nastase's ban from ITF competitions was reduced by eight months and his fine was increased to $20,000 following his appeal of his suspension after a vile outburst during Romania's Fed Cup tie last April.
Former Romanian captain Nastase was booted from Romania’s home tie against Great Britain and had his credential revoked after going ballistic in a vile, sexist tirade at both British No. 1 Johanna Konta and captain Anne Keothavong. That occurred after he made controversial comments about Serena Williams' unborn baby.
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Prior to the tie in Constanta, Romania, last spring, players were asked about Williams' pregnancy when Nastase interjected: "Let's see what color it has. Chocolate with milk?"
Nastase was originally suspended from acting in an official capacity in ITF competition until December 31st, 2020, and denied access to competitions and circuits until December 31st, 2018.
The former world No. 1 appealed that ruling to the Independent Tribunal and earned an eight-month reduction in his ban. Read the Independent Tribunal's complete ruling here.
Nastase is now banned from official ITF team and individual competitions and circuits until April 23rd, 2020. He will be denied access and accreditation until April 23rd, 2018. ATP, WTA and Grand Slam tournaments are not included within the sanction, as they lie outside the jurisdiction of the ITF.
Nastase's fine was doubled to $20,000.
The 1973 Roland Garros champion released a statement today lauding the shortened suspension and the court's "conclusion that I am not a racist, nor that I had any racist intentions when I made the remark in relation to Ms. Serena Williams' child.
"While I have learned my lesson from this experience, I also hope that (the ITF) will realize that their treatment of me was exaggerated."
The 71-year-old Nastase threatened a British journalist who reported his remarks during a crazed weekend last April.
After being booted off the grounds, Nastase had to be restrained by security from going after British journalist Eleanor Crooks, who had reported his remarks.
Crooks posted video of the incident on Twitter that shows him calling her stupid and questioning why she reported it.
Nastase said he will not attend Romania's Fed Cup tie vs. visiting Canada this weekend.