Alexander Zverev labels Mexican Open outburst the 'worst moment of my life'

The world No.3 partnered with Brazil's Marcelo Melo in the Mexican Open doubles tournament earlier this month, but the duo crashed out in the round of 16.

Britain's Lloyd Glasspool and Finland's Harri Heliovaara edged a 6-2 4-6 10-6 victory, and while Zverev initially appeared calm over the result, the Olympic gold medallist then lashed out in anger.

A controversial line call during the match angered Zverev, and the 24-year-old proceeded to hit umpire Alessandro Germani's chair with his racket.

ATP senior vice-president Miro Bratoev conducted a review of Zverev's actions after the match, and he was found guilty of a major offence, resulting in an eight week ban from ATP events if he behaves similarly in any other events.

Zverev now faces a year of probation, with any further unsportsmanlike conduct resulting in the ban and a further £25,000 fine.

The ATP statement read: "The fine and suspension are withheld on the condition that, over a probation period ending 22 February 2023 (one year from the incident), the player does not incur a further Code Violation."

Ahead of this week's Indian Wells tournament, Zverev commented on his actions, apologising profusely and labelling it "the worst moment of my life".

"It still is embarrassing for me now," said the German.

"Walking around the locker room, it's not a nice feeling. But we all do mistakes. I'm also a human being, and I can guarantee you I will never act this way again in my life. It was definitely the worst moment of my life."

Zverev is scheduled to start his Indian Wells tournament on Saturday, March 12 - although his opponent is yet to be confirmed.