This is a scene that particularly shocked tennis fans. In a rather hushed sport where the players generally show composure, like Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer, who know how to keep their calm despite complicated situations, the attitude ofAlexander Zverev was very poorly received. At the end of his round of 16 doubles match at the Acapulco tournament, the German went completely off the rails, slamming his racket three times against the umpire’s chair. Angry, he then verbally attacked the latter before delivering a final blow to his chair.
A revolting attitude and very bad for the reputation of the player, already accused of domestic violence by his ex-girlfriend in the past, and who quickly apologized for his behavior on Instagram. Unfortunately, the damage is done for the bomb’s companion, Sophia Thomalla, who must now face the consequences of her actions. After being immediately excluded from the singles tournament, the world number 3 has just suffered a second sanction by taking a heavy fine from the ATP. Alexander Zverev will have to pay a fine of €35,000while being deprived of his tournament winnings, whatever €28,000. A total shortfall of approximately €63,000!
In addition, the tennis player will be deprived of ATP points he had earned so far in the tournament, but it’s probably not over for the German who must now wait for the rest. Indeed, the ATP has announced that it will carry out “an in-depth analysis of the incident”which could ultimately lead to heavy suspension for Alexander Zverev.
Rafael Nadal puts him in his place
On top of all that, the 24-year-old sportsman saw the legend Rafael Nadal comment on the matter and he was not particularly lenient towards her. “We can’t act this way and I think he is aware of it (…) In the end there are millions of children who model their attitude on ours and we must lead by example and show a minimum of respect“said the Spaniard.
Beyond the financial and sporting sanctions, being taken over in this way by an icon of his sport certainly did not have to please Alexander Zverev …