Novak Djokovic was in favor of creating a policy against gender violence in the ATP after the accusations of mistreatment it has received Alexander Zverev by his ex-partner Olga Sharypova. The German player's ex-girlfriend accused the tennis player of mistreatment when they were in a relationship in 2019, something that Zverev has repeatedly denied, calling it false. Asked whether ATP should take a stand on this and create a plan or policy against gender violence, as other sports do, Djokovic is in favor.
“I have heard what happened, but we do not know what really happened. I have known Zverev from a very young age and have always had a good relationship with him. Of course I do not support any kind of violence. That the ATP develop a policy against gender violence? Why not? I think we have not had cases of these in the history of this sport. Perhaps this case will inspire the ATP to develop a plan on this, “Djokovic explained at a press conference. The Serbian also pointed out that he had not noticed that the relationship of the other tennis players with Zverev had changed and that he had not spoken with the German of the subject, although he has offered his help if he needs to speak.
Already focused on tennis, Djokovic went on Friday to the semifinals of the ATP Finals, where he will face the Austrian Dominic Thiem this Saturday at 2:00 p.m. “I lost to him last year. I have a lot of respect for him and his work ethic. It's semi-finals and I'm expecting a tough battle. He's a Grand Slam winner, that's a huge boost for him, because He has taken a lot of pressure and expectations off, and he can play much better than he did before. “ said the one from Belgrade.
Djokovic also spoke about how he is handling this season finale. “I do not feel as exhausted in this season finale as others, but mentally it is demanding a lot from us, for spending so much time in quarantine,” reflected the world's number one. “Strange is the word to define this season. I hope this feeling of entering an empty stadium does not last much longer. If Australia happens I think there could be 50% capacity in the stadiums, but even 10% would be incredible, “he added.
Zverev: “My relationship with tennis players has not changed”
Alexander Zverev He assured that his relationship with the other tennis players “has not changed”, despite accusations of mistreatment by his ex-partner Olga Sharypova. The german who has insisted that such accusations are “false”, He was clear at a press conference and pointed out that no one has treated him differently since this incident came to light.
“What else can I say? I've already said it all. It is very unfortunate that these false accusations can do so much damage and move the attention away from sport, but unfortunately it is the world in which we live, “said the German at a press conference.
“With the other players? They are fine with me. The relationship has not changed. They know what's going on, “he added.