The viral storm surrounding millionaire businessman Piotr Szczerek intensified after he issued a statement defending his role in the much-criticized incident at the 2025 US Open. Szczerek was filmed snatching a signed cap from Polish tennis player Kamil Majchrzak that was being handed to a young fan during a live broadcast. The moment sparked global outrage, with the visibly upset child becoming the face of the controversy online. Responding to the backlash, Szczerek downplayed the incident. “The recent incident at the tennis match has caused a disproportionate online uproar. It’s all about the famous hat, of course. Yes, I took it. Yes, I did it quickly. But as I’ve always said, life is first come, first served,” he said in a post Instagram. He further urged critics not to escalate the matter. “I understand that some people might not like it, but please, let’s not make a global scandal out of the hat. It’s just a hat. If you were faster, you would have it,” Szczerek added.
Millionaire CEO Piotr Szczerek’s post on Instagram (Screengrab)
Addressing the online abuse directed at him and his company, he also issued a warning. “Regarding online hate, I remind you that insulting a public figure is subject to legal liability. All offensive comments, slander, and insinuations will be analyzed for the possibility of taking the matter to court.” The entrepreneur, co-founder and CEO of Polish paving and landscaping firm Drogbruk, has seen his reputation take a severe hit since the clip went viral. Review sites and social media platforms were flooded with critical posts, while many users called for boycotts of his business. In contrast, Majchrzak himself helped ease tensions by locating the boy, named Brok, and gifting him a new autographed cap along with other memorabilia. The gesture drew widespread praise, though it did little to shield Szczerek from ongoing criticism.
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What began as a fleeting moment at Flushing Meadows has now escalated into a reputational crisis, with Szczerek’s comments likely to keep the debate alive.
