Why Alexander Zverev was left enraged by ‘failure of the system’ over controversial line-call ruling at the Madrid Open
Alexander Zverev became the latest high-profile player to criticize the use of electronic line-calling on clay, joining Aryna Sabalenka, who voiced similar concerns earlier this month in Stuttgart. While line judges have been removed from ATP Tour events, the French Open will continue using them — a decision that feels even more significant after Saturday’s controversy in Madrid.
Zverev’s Match and the Incident
During his second-round Madrid Open clash against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, world No. 2 Zverev battled to a 2-6, 7-6(3), 7-6(0) victory — but not without controversy.
In the 10th game of the second set, Zverev was furious when an electronic call ruled a ball “in” that he clearly believed was out. He appealed to chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani and even took a photo of the ball mark to share on social media with the caption:
“Just gonna leave this one here. This was called in. Interesting call.”
Zverev was subsequently issued a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct but recovered to win the match in two tie-breaks.
Post-Match Reaction
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Zverev criticized the technology:
“Honestly, I believe there was a failure in the system. This wasn’t a case of a millimetre difference — it was four or five centimetres. I support the electronic system generally, but today, it clearly failed. I told the chair umpire, ‘Please come down and see this — I’m not crazy!’”
He continued:
“It will be interesting to see what kind of fine they issue. I hope they don’t fine me because I am absolutely right. Usually, the system is reliable, but today was different.”
Zverev made it clear he didn’t blame Lahyani, explaining:
“It’s not the umpire’s fault. If the rules don’t allow him to come down and check the mark, his hands are tied. I’ll talk to the supervisors and the ATP because incidents like this need a protocol where an umpire can intervene if something is clearly wrong.”
Background and Context
The incident comes amid growing concerns about the use of fully electronic line-calling on clay courts — a surface where ball marks are often easily visible. Unlike hard courts, clay traditionally allowed players and umpires to check physical marks. With the French Open maintaining line judges for now, Saturday’s events add fuel to the debate over whether electronic calls are truly ready to replace human judgment on clay.
