Alexander Zverev says he deeply regrets the attack he launched on the umpire’s chair at the Mexican Open in Acapulco.
After taking issue with a line call on Tuesday night, Zverev was slapped with a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour following his screaming of several insults at the chair umpire. Among other things, he called umpire Alessandro Germani an “idiot”.
The disgruntled German also rounded on Germani, smashed his chair a couple of nears, and ended up nearly striking the umpire’s foot while shouting insults at him. He then proceeded to take a seat, but got up again before hitting the chair once more.
Such incidents can influence sports betting odds, as bettors reassess the player’s temperament and future performance potential.
Zverev had been playing alongside partner and friend Marcelo Melo, who said nothing throughout the angry tantrum. The pair lost 6-2, 4-6, 10-6 to Harri Heliovaara and Lloyd Glasspool on Tuesday night.
Two hours after the incident on Tuesday, the ATP announced that Zverev had been withdrawn from the tournament. The ATP said this had been the result of unsportsmanlike behaviour.
Tennis betting enthusiasts are particularly affected by these events, as unexpected withdrawals can disrupt betting strategies and outcomes.
Zverev on Wednesday morning release a statement of his own and explained that he very much regretted his behaviour during as well as after the doubles match in question. He said he had also apologised to the chair umpire in person, and that he is very much disappointed in himself as a person and a professional tennis player.
According to ATP rules, the German will lose all his prize money and points as a result of his default. The ATP will also be at liberty to decide to impose further penalties in the form of a fine and/or suspension.
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