Alexander Zverev fined for physical abuse of ex-girlfriend but set to appeal ‘scandalous’ decision

Former world No 2 tennis star Zverev has been issued with a penalty order by the German courts after accusations made against him by Brenda Patea

Alexander Zverev has been fined by the german courts (REUTERS)

Alexander Zverev has been ordered by a Berlin court to pay an undisclosed fine for physically abusing the mother of his child, the German tennis player’s lawyers said, adding that he would contest the court order.

The former world No 2 “rejects the accusation made against him” by his former girlfriend Brenda Patea that she was a victim of bodily harm during an argument in 2020, his lawyers said. The pair had a daughter in 2021, though by that time they were no longer together.

In a statement, Zverev’s lawyers, Schertz Bergmann, claimed they had expert medical evidence that would support Zverev’s denials and confirmed the appeal.

“The procedure is scandalous, there can be no question of a fair, constitutional procedure,” read the statement. “Mr Zverev will take action against this using all means possible.”

The Guardian reported that the Tiergarten District Court in Berlin fined Zverev 450,000 euros.

In January, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) closed an investigation that was launched after another ex-girlfriend, tennis player Olga Sharypova, accused Zverev of domestic abuse. The ATP cited insufficient evidence as its reason for dropping the case.

Zverev, 26, is currently playing at the Paris Masters, where he beat Marton Fucsovics 4-6 7-5 6-4 on Tuesday. He is set to face Ugo Humbert in the second round on Wednesday.

Reuters