THE Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has launched an internal investigation into allegations of domestic abuse against German tennis player, Alexander Zverev, by his ex-girlfriend, Olga Sharypova, the men's tennis governing body said in a statement yesterday.
In an interview with online magazine, Slate, on August 25, former tennis player, Olga, said that Alexander was emotionally and physically abusive to her during their relationship.
The world number four and Olympic gold medallist has repeatedly denied the allegations and no charges have been brought.
24-year-old Alexander has ‘categorically and unequivocally’ denied having abused Olga and said on August 27 that his lawyers had initiated legal action against the author of the allegations.
Slate issued a statement saying it stood by its ‘fair and accurate reporting’.
The ATP said an internal investigation is ‘currently underway’ into the allegations concerning Alexander at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Shanghai in 2019.
"The allegations raised against Alexander Zverev are serious and we have a responsibility to address them," ATP chief executive, Massimo Calvelli, said in a statement.
"We hope our investigation will allow us to establish the facts and determine appropriate follow-up action. We understand (Alexander) Zverev welcomes our investigation and acknowledge that he has denied all allegations."
The ATP also said it had received the report of an independent review it commissioned earlier in 2021 covering topics including the prevention, reporting and investigation of abuse as well as disciplinary measures.
Reuters has not seen the report.
"As an organisation we recognise the need to be doing more to ensure everyone involved in professional tennis feels safe and protected," Massimo said. – Reuters, October 5, 2021
