Things have just gotten even worse for Fabio Fognini, after he was hit with further punishment for his sexist remarks at the US Open.

The Italian was playing in the first round against Stefano Travaglia, and was heard to call female umpire Louise Engzell ‘troia’ and ‘baccharina’.

These words translate as ‘whore’ and ‘c***sucker’, and in the immediate aftermath, Fognini was kicked out of the tournament before his doubles match with partner Simone Bolelli, and was fined £24,000.

But, the discipline didn’t stop there, and Fognini has learned he will face much heavier sanctions than previously thought.

He has been hit with an additional £73,000 fine and a suspended two-match Grand Slam ban – one of which would be the US Open – if he steps out of line again before 2020.

Fognini has apologised for his behaviour, and will not appeal the sanctions.

"I apologise to everyone," he told Sky Sports Italy. 

"Not just the umpire, who I already apologised to in New York, but to all those who felt hurt, women in the first place: I have nothing against them.

"Being described as sexist has hurt me because it’s not true: I’m a father, I’m married, I have a mom, a sister, I’ve always loved women, I’ve always respected her, so I’m sorry.

"I’m ready to go to the schools to talk to the kids about my mistake. I know the severity of my gesture, I know I did something heavy.

"At this moment, in addition to addressing my apologies, I am willing to go into a tennis school or any kind of school to talk to children and say what I think, that is, I’m wrong and it will not happen anymore.

"It’s my limit, I recognise it and I’m working with a mental trainer. I have to say that in the last period we were on the right track, then this nonsense I did is not explainable.

"I assume my responsibilities, I know I have done a great wrong and I have paid the consequences now. I know the thing is still fresh and I could have other sanctions, but I’m ready to pay.

"I cried when I was alone, I admit it. I cried because in the end I know that is not right. There will be no such thing any more."