Djokovic wants ATP to incorporate domestic-abuse laws, but claims “we don’t know what truly happened” about allegations against Zverev


Djokovic wants ATP to incorporate domestic-abuse laws, but claims “we don’t know what truly happened” about allegations against Zverev
Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev

Most recently, Novak Djokovic downed the 2018 Nitto ATP Finals champion Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 to book a spot in the semi-finals and continue his bid for a 6th title here. This led to the elimination of the German from the event.

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Zverev has been a controversial figure to bet on this past month. His former partner, Olga Sharypova accused him of physical and mental abuse. She gave detailed accounts of the same and proceeded to show the text messages and distressing conversations she had whilst trying to fight for her life. 

In his post-match press conference, Novak was asked about the aforementioned. While he made it known that the truth was still to be unearthed, ATP should step up and have a policy that combats this sort of behaviour.

Djokovic’s response to the allegations against Zverev

Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev

Zverev has maintained a callous front and stated that Olga’s detailed accounts are “simply not true”. He has proceeded to stray away from the topic altogether when questioned about it in the pressers. 

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In his post-match press conference, Novak responded to the harrowing story of Olga. He was more open and honest about it than the other players who were indirectly asked to weigh in on the issue. Before stating that he doesn’t condone any kind of violence, he added, “we don’t know what happened truly”.

Furthermore, Novak stated that he was “sad to hear” that Zverev was “going through something like this”. He seemed sympathetic towards Sascha because the duo are quite close on the ATP Tour. Moreover, in an interview with Tennis TV, the Serb declared Alexander to be his ‘closest friend’ out of the 7 other players who are in attendance at the Nitto ATP Finals 2020.

“ATP should have domestic abuse policy” declares the World No.1 

Novak Djokovic

The 17-time Grand Slam champion proceeded to advocate that domestic abuse laws should be incorporated in the ATP policy. Such laws are already present in major sporting leagues of basketball and football, i.e, the NBA and the NFL.

In fact, he questioned the ATP regarding it, stating, “Why not”. He proceeded to add that while top players have never been involved in such controversies in tennis, now is the time to not turn a blind eye to what is essential. “It should be there in place,” he asserted.

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Also Read: “I’m against abuse in any means,” Daniil Medvedev’s speaks up on the present Zverev-Olga controversy