Zverev meltdown after Alcaraz receives treatment
Alexander Zverev’s Australian Open semi-final against Carlos Alcaraz was briefly eclipsed by a heated dispute over medical treatment, reigniting debate around how tennis officials handle injury timeouts in high-stakes matches.
The controversy unfolded during Friday’s men’s singles semi-final in Melbourne, where Zverev faced world number one Alcaraz for a place in the final. Defending champion Jannik Sinner was scheduled to meet Novak Djokovic in the other semi-final.
Alcaraz had seized control early, winning the opening two sets 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), and appeared on course for a straight-sets victory before an interruption altered the tone of the contest.
Treatment sparks confrontation
According to reporting by The Express, Alcaraz showed signs of discomfort late in the third set, crouching down and touching his leg at 4-4 before holding serve. Medical staff then attended to him during the changeover.
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Zverev took issue with the stoppage, angrily confronting a tournament official. His remarks containing strong language were audible on the live broadcast, prompting TNT Sports commentator Nick Mullins to apologise to viewers.
The German appeared to argue that Alcaraz was experiencing cramp, which under Grand Slam regulations does not qualify for a medical timeout. Such rules are intended to prevent players from using physical fatigue as a tactical delay, though enforcement has long been a point of contention in the sport.
Journalists document Zverev’s frustration
Tennis journalist Jose Morgado described the exchange on social media, writing: “Physio checking on Alcaraz. MTO. Zverev is p***ed off as he thinks it's cramps, so Alcaraz can't get treated.
“It's unbelievable that he can get treated for cramps. This is b******t.”
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Another reporter, Olly Tennis, said Zverev believed certain players receive favourable treatment, writing that he accused officials of “protecting” Alcaraz and Sinner.
It was later claimed that Zverev told officials: “You are protecting these two guys all the time.”
Criticism of officials’ handling
Former world number one Jim Courier echoed Zverev’s frustration while analysing the incident on Australia’s NINE network.
“This is such a travesty,” Courier said. “They have totally botched this. That’s why Zverev is melting down right now.”
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After play resumed, Zverev responded on court, winning the third and fourth sets in consecutive tie-breaks, 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (7-4), to extend the match and keep his title hopes alive.
Elsewhere at Melbourne Park
In the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka advanced to Saturday’s final, where she will face Elena Rybakina. Sabalenka defeated Elina Svitolina, while Rybakina overcame Jessica Pegula in their respective semi-finals.
Sources: The Express, TNT Sports, NINE
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