Alexander Zverev has been booted out of the ATP 500 tournament in Acapulco, Mexico. He faces a hefty punishment after hitting an umpire’s chair three times with his racket following a doubles match loss.
The incident occurred after Zverev and his partner Marcelo Melo were beaten 6-2 4-6 10-6 by Lloyd Glasspool and Harri Heliovaara.
Previously Zverev received a code violation after yelling and swearing in protest of a shot that was ruled in, setting up match point. British player Lloyd Glasspool ended the match with an ace.
Alexander Zverev Apologises for His Behaviour
Zverev approached the umpire’s chair after shaking hands with the opponents. He hit the chair repeatedly before heading toward his courtside seat. The reaction was due to a line call during the match.
He approached the chair a second time and once again hit it while shouting expletives. Alessandro Germani, the chair umpire pulled his feet back at one point for fear of being hit.
The ATP released a statement after the incident. They said, “Due to unsportsmanlike conduct at the conclusion of his doubles match on Tuesday night, Alexander Zverev has been withdrawn from the tournament in Acapulco.”
Zverev’s angry outburst could earn him more sanctions from the Association of Tennis Players. The ATP are also investigating the domestic violence allegations made by his ex-girlfriend.
Alexander Zverev posted an Instagram story, apologizing for his awful behaviour.
He wrote, “It is difficult to put into words how much I regret my behavior during and after the doubles match yesterday. I have privately apologized to the chair umpire because my outburst towards him was wrong and unacceptable, and I am only disappointed in myself.”
“It just should not have happened and there is no excuse. I would also like to apologize to my fans, the tournament, and the sport that I love.”
“As you know, I leave everything on the court. Yesterday, I left too much. I am going to take the coming days to reflect – on my actions and how I can ensure that it will not happen again. I am sorry for letting you down.”
Sascha was scheduled to meet fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the following round. However, Peter will now get a walkover to advance to the quarterfinals.