‘Effective Immediately’ – ATP Chairman Says After Alexander Zverev and Nick Kyrgios Fiascos Organization Will Take Stricter Action

It has been a roller-coaster season for tennis. Fans have been fortunate to witness some jaw-dropping tennis action so far this season. From witnessing Rafael Nadal claim his 21st Major to watching the Next-Gen stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek challenge the seasoned players, the season has been nothing short of spectacular. However, some controversies and on-court conduct involving players like Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, and Nick Kyrgios have marred the sport in what has otherwise been a glorious start to the season.

Novak Djokovic was the center of visa controversy surrounding him which later led to his deportation from Australia. Furthermore, Alexander Zverev was disqualified in Acapulco after coming agonizingly close to hitting the chair umpire with his racket. Recently, Nick Kyrgios received punishment after smashing his racket which came close to hitting the ball kid. ATP chairman, Andrea Gaudenzi, has opened up on the growing cases of code violations in tennis.

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ATP chairman reveals strict action for future code violations while referring to Alexander Zverev and Nick Kyrgios’ controversies

Amidst the increase in improper on-court conduct by the players, the ATP has reviewed the penalties for code violations. Elaborating on this topic, the ATP chairman said, “Effective immediately and as we head into the clay court swing, the ATP officiating team has been directed to take a stricter stance in judging violations of the Code of Conduct.”

Further, he said, “Additionally, we are also undertaking a review of the Code, as well as the disciplinary processes, to ensure that it provides appropriate and up-to-date penalties for serious violations and repeat offenders. We all have a role to play to uphold the reputation and integrity of our sport”.

Talking about how these incidents overshadow the brilliance in the sport, he went on to add, “The first three months of the season have seen an unusual frequency of high-profile incidents involving unsportsmanlike conduct. These incidents shine a bad light on our sport. This conduct affects everyone, and sends the wrong message to our fans, especially young fans.”

While Zverev received a fine and ranking points penalty for his conduct, Kyrgios received only a fine. It is quite understandable that the emotions flow high given the competitive nature of the sport. However, the players also act as role models for younger players which makes these incidents disturbing for them.

Current penalties for code violations

The governing body of tennis follows a detailed set of guidelines for inappropriate conduct on the tennis court. During a match, a code of conduct violation results in a warning by the officials after the first incident. Subsequently, if such an incident is repeated, it results in the loss of a point. Further, if the incident takes place for the third time, a player will be penalized for a game.

In addition to this, the governing body decides the fine and subsequent action against a player depending upon the level of the code violation. In the case of Zverev’s controversy, he was fined an additional USD 25,000 and a suspension for eight weeks. However, he is under probation for one year and these will only be applicable if Zverev commits another code violation during the probation period.

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It is high time that the governing body takes stricter actions to curb these incidents. With their recent announcement, the ATP has taken a step in the right direction.