World number three Alexandre Zverev took to social media to speak out about the Mexican Open. He was disqualified from the singles bracket after the German was kicked out of the Mexico Open for hitting out at the umpire.
Zverev later said in a statement he regretted his behaviour and apologised for the incident.
“It’s hard to put into words how much I regret my behaviour during and after the doubles match. I apologised privately to the chair umpire, said my outburst towards him was wrong and unacceptable, and I’m just disappointed with myself”, Zverev posted on his social media account.
Zverev lost his cool after he and doubles partner Marcelo Melo of Brazil fell 6-2, 4-6, 10-6 to Briton Lloyd Glasspool and Finn Harri Heliovaara.
The 24-year-old admitted that he will use the next few days to reflect and find out how not to commit a similar act again.
“This didn’t have to happen and there is no excuse. I would also like to apologise to my fans, the tournament and the sport I love.” Zverev said.
“As you know, I leave everything on the court. Yesterday I left too much. I will take the next few days to reflect about my actions and how I can make sure it doesn’t happen again. I’m sorry to disappoint you.” he added.
Andy Murray said Zverev’s behaviour was dangerous and reckless, while Novak Djokovic – the men’s world number one – added the decision to disqualify the German was correct.
Zverev was the second seed in the singles draw and the defending champion in the tournament. He had reached the second round after the latest match in history, finishing his three-set win against Jenson Brooksby on Tuesday morning.
