"Could have prevented this, but did nothing": Handling of Alexander Zverev situation called out amid 'grim' Nadal final stand
ATPMonday, 27 May 2024 at 16:33
Currently a set up on Rafael Nadal, Alexander Zverev has just been broken as the Spaniard takes a 3-2 lead. But for many, it was fearing the worst in the opening exchanges. In fact for some, they feel this match shouldn't be taking place in the first place.
Zverev as the Eurosport commentators dubbed will face court of a different kind next week with the recent Rome champion set for a domestic abuse trial as he appeals a penalty order by his ex-girlfriend Brenda Patea.
But for many, it is a feeling of unease to see him playing at all amid this dark cloud hanging over his head as well as beating one of the sports greats who could yet bow out with his retirement sealed by Alexander Zverev. Ben Rothenberg who has continually called out this case called the occasion 'grim' and said that tennis authorities are to blame for it happening.
He went on to say that he feels sorry in particular for the Nadal fans who have to watch him likely lose to Zverev in his final Roland Garros match and that the sport made this mess themselves. Zverev was also previously accused by his ex-girlfriend Olya Sharypova with Rothenberg one of those to bring the story to light. But no further action was taken by the ATP after an investigation.
"Don’t know about y’all but I’m finding this occasion quite grim!
Nadal looking on track to take just his fourth loss at #RolandGarros, by far his earliest by round, against a man whom tennis authorities really should have benched right now but chose not to due to moral rot. Bad," said Rothenberg on X.
"I feel worst for all the Nadal fans who have to stomach watching Zverev in order to see their guy’s possible last match at #RolandGarros.
Tennis authorities could have readily prevented this scenario, but did nothing.
Tennis made this mess for itself, but fans deserved better."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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