Alexander Zverev sparked controversy during his third-round match against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina at the Madrid Open after disputing an automatic line call. The German star, frustrated by a decision that ruled his opponent’s shot in, pleaded with chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani to inspect the ball mark on the clay. However, with electronic line calling in place, umpires are no longer permitted to manually review marks.

Determined to prove his point, Zverev retrieved his phone from his bag and took a picture of the mark, momentarily delaying his opponent’s service motion. His actions earned him a code violation warning for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Despite the incident, Zverev went on to secure a hard-fought victory, winning 2-6, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (0). After the match, he posted the photo on Instagram with a caption questioning the accuracy of the call. His post reignited discussions about the reliability of electronic line calling, with some supporting his stance while others criticized his approach.

The controversy adds to ongoing debates in professional tennis regarding the balance between technology and traditional officiating. While electronic systems aim to eliminate human error, moments like Zverev’s challenge highlight the frustrations players still experience when calls appear questionable.

Zverev in Madrid, ranking, and results in 2025

Currently the world no.

2 (career-high), Zverev has a compiled 21-7 win-loss record in 2025. The German is now playing in Madrid where he ousted the world no.55 Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2 6-2 and the world no.29 Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 2-6 7-6(3) 7-6(0).

Zverev clinched 1 title in 2025 in Munich. Zverev was the runner-up at the Australian Open.

Zverev won 25 titles in his career: 8 on hard courts, 9 on clay courts and 8 on indoor courts. (See the list of his titles)

He is also scheduled to play at the French Open (French Open) after Rome. The main draw will start on the 7th of May.