World No. 3 Alexander Zverev faced more public backlash over past domestic abuse allegations during his Munich Open quarter-final on Friday.
While serving at 5-5 in the second set against Tallon Griekspoor, a spectator shouted: “Let’s go, you wifebeater!” prompting Zverev to immediately address chair umpire Fergus Murphy, saying, “Fergus, please kick him out.”
It remains unclear whether the spectator was removed from the venue.
This incident marks the second public heckling Zverev has faced this year. During the Australian Open trophy ceremony in January, a fan interrupted with, “Australia believes Olya and Brenda,” referencing Zverev’s ex-partners who previously accused him of abuse.
The Allegations Against Zverev
- In 2020, ex-girlfriend Olya Sharypova accused Zverev of physical and emotional abuse during their relationship. No formal charges were filed, and an ATP investigation concluded in 2023 found “insufficient evidence” to pursue disciplinary action.
- In 2023, Brenda Patea, the mother of Zverev’s child, accused him of physical abuse. A German court issued a penalty order, which Zverev challenged. The case was settled out of court in June 2024, leading to the discontinuation of the trial.
The court clarified the settlement was “not a verdict and not a determination of guilt or innocence.”
On-Court Focus Remains
Despite the off-court controversy, Zverev continued his strong form in Munich, defeating Griekspoor 6-7(6), 7-6(3), 6-4. He is set to face Fabian Marozsan of Hungary in the semi-finals on Saturday.
