Alexander Zverev’s runner-up speech at the Australian Open was interrupted by a spectator. The fan referenced allegations of abuse made against the World No. 2, which the German has denied.

Zverev lost Sunday’s final to defending champion Jannik Sinner, who won 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3. As the Olympic Gold medalist began his speech, someone in the crowd shouted, “Australia believes Olya and Brenda.”

The German player has faced accusations of domestic abuse from two former girlfriends. Olya Sharypova shared her claims in interviews published in Racquet magazine in 2020 and Slate in 2021.

Zverev has denied these allegations. Sharypova did not pursue legal action, and the ATP investigated her claims but found insufficient evidence. As a result, the World No.2 did not face any penalties from the men’s tennis organization.

Jannik Sinner defended his Australian Open title with a dominant performance on Sunday (January 26th). He defeated Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3 in the final. This win marks a historic moment for Italian tennis as Sinner becomes the first Italian to win three Grand Slam titles.

Sinner has now surpassed Nicola Pietrangeli, who won the French Open twice in 1959 and 1960. The World No. 1 showcased his skill and composure to secure his third major trophy. His consistent and powerful play left little room for Zverev to mount a challenge.

Last year, Sinner claimed his first Grand Slam by beating Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set final in Melbourne. This time, he controlled the match from start to finish, keeping the pressure on Zverev with precise and steady execution.

For Zverev, the wait for a Grand Slam title continues. He was also a finalist at the 2023 French Open, where he lost to Carlos Alcaraz, and at the 2020 U.S. Open, where Dominic Thiem defeated him. This marks his third loss in a Grand Slam final.