While Tennis star Alexander Zverev battles on the court at the French Open, his off-court legal troubles are set to take center stage as his appeal against a fine for alleged assault is about to start in Berlin.
Alexander Zverev appeals against fine
World No. 4 Alexander Zverev, who was fined €450,000 ($487,000) in October 2023 for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, has decided to contest the ruling.
The German tennis star, however, will not be attending the opening of the trial in the German capital, opting to focus on his French Open campaign.
Allegations and Testimony
The alleged victim is expected to give testimony at the start of the trial, which is scheduled to last until mid-July. She has accused Alexander Zverev of “briefly choking her with both hands during an argument” in Berlin in May 2020, causing her “difficulty breathing and significant pain.”
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Alexander Zverev in R3 of French Open
Despite the ongoing trial, Alexander Zverev has made a strong start to the French Open, defeating Rafael Nadal in the first round and advancing to the last 32 after overcoming David Goffin in the second round.
He is currently in good form, having won the Italian Open earlier this month, and is chasing his first Grand Slam title.
Alexander Zverev Maintains Innocence
Addressing the media, Zverev expressed his faith in the German legal system and his belief in the truth: “I do know what I did, I do know what I didn’t do. That’s, at the end of the day, what’s going to come out, and I have to trust in that.”
Previous Investigation and Upcoming Trial
The court has not named the alleged victim, but Zverev’s defense has identified her as Brenda Patea. In a separate case, the ATP closed its investigation into allegations of domestic abuse against Zverev by his ex-girlfriend Olya Sharypova in January 2023 due to insufficient evidence.
The upcoming trial will likely cast a shadow over Zverev’s French Open journey as he navigates both the legal proceedings and his pursuit of Grand Slam glory.