Zverev refuses to be controversial: "They're human, it's normal".

© AFP

Elio Valotto

le 10/06/2024 à 11h14

1 min to read

Alcaraz Roland Garros Zverev

Alexander Zverev's reaction was eagerly awaited. Beaten by Alcaraz in Sunday's French Open final (6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2), the German was the victim of a major refereeing error.

In the 5th set of this final, a refereeing error had a clear impact on the outcome of the match. At 2-1 in his favor, Alcaraz saved two break points to keep his serve and take control of the match. Only problem: he had double-faulted at 15-40! Serving a 2nd fault ball, the match referees ruled that the ball was good and Carlos Alcaraz finally won the game. Problem was, they were wrong: the hawk-eye showed it (visible to the media, but not used on clay).

When asked about this fact of play, which could have completely changed the outcome of the match since Zverev should have pulled level at 2-2, the German champion showed his wisdom and tolerance. He explained: "Of course, if you're down 3-1 in the fifth set or if you're at two-all, it makes a big difference. Yes, it's very frustrating, but that's the way it is. There's nothing you can do about it. Referees make mistakes, they're human, it's normal, you have to accept it. In a situation like this, you'd prefer there were no mistakes, but there are."