‘The ATP has to be more proactive and look for a solution on the Zverev-Sharypova issue,’ says Andy Murray
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Zverev-Sharypova and Andy Murray
World No.4 Alexander Zverev has long made it clear that he will not talk about his personal life in front of the media. Ever since his former girlfriend Olya Sharypova accused him of physical violence, tennis journalists, across tournaments have been relentlessly chasing Zverev for clarifications.
While Zverev has done well over the past few months to not fall into the trap by spilling any beans, speculations on the same have gained more intensity and momentum.
Recently at the Laver Cup too, Zverev’s participation was marred by some angry fans on Twitter who asked the tournament organisers to take a stance against the violent behaviour of the 24-year-old.
While the Laver Cup organisers kept mum about the issue, tennis presenter Mary Carillo refused to carry on with her role of presenting the tournament, citing discomfort in calling the event.
In 2020, the Russian model had alleged that Zverev physically abused her during their relationship. “I have been beaten and will not be silent anymore,” Sharypova said in an interview with Russian website Championat.
On the same issue, former World No.1 Andy Murray too was asked to share his views. The Scot who is playing a tournament in San Diego felt that the ATP has to take up the matter seriously and probe deeper.
“I think ATP has to do something about it, be more proactive in this matter since this situation is not good for anyone. I specifically do not know what I would do but I think this question is getting long and does not seem to have a solution,” Murray told Ubitennis.
Former Tennis Players call for solution
At the 2021 US Open, during Zverev’s quarterfinal match, tennis legends Martina Navratilova and Jim Courier too were candid in their commentary stint and called for a definite solution.
“No criminal charges have been filed. She was interviewed, stories were written. Zverev hired lawyers to obtain injunctions against the girlfriend and the writer of the article. It’s been sort of a no man’s land, because she hasn’t pressed charges. There’s been no solution,” Courier said.
“Yeah, you can only hide for so long. The tennis court is a safe haven, but eventually, these issues need to be addressed. That kind of stuff will eat at you. Who knows what the truth is? It’s a he said she said situation. But it needs to be addressed,” Navratilova added.
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Vivek Krishnan
(767 Articles Published)