ATP takes ‘stricter stance’ on player conduct violations & ‘repeat offenders’
The ATP has notified officials to be more severe with their judgment of violations in an effort to reduce dangerous incidents and negative publicity.
The move comes into effect as the tour enters the clay season, with the third Masters 1000 event of the year kicking off in Monte Carlo next week.
Recent high profile punishments handed out by the ATP have been received by Nick Kyrgios and world number three Alexander Zverev.
According to Reuters, a note from ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi reads: “Effective immediately and as we head into the clay court swing, the ATP officiating team has been directed to take a stricter stance in judging violations of the Code of Conduct.
“Additionally, we are also undertaking a review of the Code, as well as the disciplinary processes, to ensure that it provides appropriate and up-to-date penalties for serious violations and repeat offenders.”
Kyrgios racked up fines of $60,000 across the ‘Sunshine Double’ of Indian Wells and Miami for multiple violations including throwing his racket in the direction of a ball kid, verbal abuse towards an umpire and unsportsmanlike conduct.
However, Kyrgios also earned over $350,000 in prize money in singles and doubles across the two tournaments, netting him a gain of $290,000 after fines.
Earlier this year, Zverev was fined $40,000 and ejected from the Mexican Open in Acapulco, forfeiting his ranking points and prize money from the event, after he smashed his racket on the chair umpire’s stand after defeat in a doubles match.
The German was also given an eight-week suspended ban which expires 12 months from Acapulco, a punishment some saw as not harsh enough.
Gaudenzi continued: “The first three months of the season have seen an unusual frequency of high-profile incidents involving unsportsmanlike conduct.
“These incidents shine a bad light on our sport. This conduct affects everyone, and sends the wrong message to our fans, especially young fans.”
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