Credit: Play / Instagram alexzverev123
German tennis player Alexander Zverev showed that he felt sorry for the situation that occurred during the ATP match in Acapulco today (23). After disagreeing with the judge’s decision, the athlete, who is paired with Brazilian Marcelo Melo, went towards the official and hit with his racket on the chair in which he was sitting.
The moment was captured after the 2-1 match for Glaspool (UK) and Heliovara (Finland). The anger was booed by people in the arena, after which the organization disqualified him from the competition due to unsportsmanlike behaviour.
Due to unsportsmanlike behavior at the conclusion of the doubles match at night, Alexander Zverev was suspended from the tournament in Acapulco.
– Abierto Mexicano (AbiertoTelcel) Feb 23 2022
On social media, Zverev posted a message in English and German on Instagram stories to apologize for the situation. He defined the act as “unacceptable” and explained that after the episode in front of the cameras, he met referee Alessandro Germani and apologized for it.
Check out the full speech:
“It is hard to describe in words how much I regret my behavior during and after yesterday’s doubles match. I have especially apologized to the chair judge because my anger against him was wrong and unacceptable, and I disappointed myself. It should not have happened and no excuse. I would also like to apologize to my fans, And the championship and the sport that I love.
You know, I always leave everything I have on the field. Yesterday, I left a lot. I’m going to take the next few days to reflect – about my actions and how I can ensure it doesn’t happen again. Sorry to disappoint you.”
Due to a disqualification, Zverev will not be able to play against fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the 16th stage of the singles class in Acapulco. Thus, he loses the opportunity to defend the title he won in the last edition.
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