A viral clip from the US Open has turned into a public-relations crisis for a Polish businessman. Piotr Szczerek, linked to paving manufacturer Drogbruk, was filmed taking a signed cap that tennis player Kamil Majchrzak was handing to a young fan named Brock after a second-round win. The video spread rapidly across social media and triggered a wave of negative reviews targeting Szczerek’s company.
The US Open video that sparked anger
Footage shows Majchrzak reaching toward Brock with his cap when an adult next to the boy grabs it and puts it in a bag. Brock appears upset as the moment unfolds. Majchrzak did not see the incident in real time, but after the clip went viral he used social media to find the boy and later met him and gifted a replacement cap.
Social media turns against Polish CEO Piotr Szczerek
The clip drew widespread criticism across X, TikTok, and Instagram, with many users calling the act shameless and sharing edited versions that amplified the backlash. Coverage by international outlets identified the man as Piotr Szczerek and noted his ties to Drogbruk.
Review-bombing hits Drogbruk
The controversy quickly spilled over into Piotr Szczerek’s professional life. Drogbruk’s listings were flooded with one-star reviews on platforms such as GoWork and Trustpilot, many posted by people who said they were not customers but wanted to register disapproval. Ratings moved sharply downward in a matter of hours.
Who is Piotr Szczerek
Polish and international reports describe Piotr Szczerek as a wealthy businessman tied to Drogbruk. Before the incident he was largely unknown outside Poland, but the video brought global attention.
Silence from the CEO and company
As of publication, no verified statement has been issued by either Szczerek or Drogbruk. Posts purporting to quote him have circulated, but their authenticity remains unconfirmed.
Lessons in reputation management
The episode shows how a personal choice in a public setting can damage a professional brand. A single video catalyzed outrage, memes, and calls to boycott, then spilled into review-bombing that affected the company’s online footprint.
What happens next
Majchrzak’s outreach ensured Brock received a cap, but attention remains on how Piotr Szczerek and Drogbruk respond. Communications experts say a prompt apology and direct outreach often help in crises like this. Without a response, the negative cycle is likely to continue as the clip keeps circulating. One post-match moment at the US Open turned Piotr Szczerek into a viral villain and dragged his company into an online storm. Until there is a clear statement or action from him or Drogbruk, the criticism is unlikely to fade.
