Investigation into Alexander Zverev domestic abuse allegations still ongoing, ATP Chairman confirms
ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi has confirmed that the investigation into the allegations of domestic violence made against Alexander Zverev are still ongoing, but feels it highlights areas in which the ATP needs to improve.
In 2020, World number three Zverev was accused of mentally and physically abusing his former partner Olya Sharypova throughout their relationship.
In October of last year, the ATP announced that they will carry out an investigation into such serious accusations. Zverev went on to say he welcomes the investigation.
The accusations arose from two separate interviews with Racquet magazine in 2020 and Slate.com in 2021.
In these interviews, Sharypova outlined her account of events before then providing photos which purportedly showed bruising on her face and WhatsApp messages the duo shared.
The online article of the interview on Slate.com was removed due to an emergency injunction issued by the German courts.
When asked about the status of the investigation into Zverev’s alleged domestic violence, in an exclusive interview with German news website SPOX Gaudenzi said “the investigation is ongoing.
“We have engaged an independent third party with expertise in this area to assist us in the investigative process.
“I cannot comment on the details of the investigation as of now, but I can say that [when] we have more information available [we] will ask when the investigation is complete.
“I can also say that this is all new territory for us as an organization.
“It has shown us areas in which we have some catching up to do and need to do more in the future.
“I’m glad we did last year together with an external expert, we have done a very thorough review on safety and security issues and as a result we have received a number of recommendations to ensure that all children and adults involved in professional tennis are safe and free from abuse are protected.
“Building on these recommendations will be a great focus.”
Zverev was recently ejected from the Mexican Open after he swung his racket at the Chair Umpire’s stand a total of four times.
He has subsequently been fined $40,000 (£30,000) and stripped of all prize money and ranking points earned at the Acapulco event.
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