A district court in Berlin has dropped the case against tennis star Alexander Zverev after prosecutors and lawyers for both sides reached an agreement. The case stemmed from allegations of domestic violence made by Zverev's former partner Brenda Patea.
A district court in Berlin has dropped the case against tennis star Alexander Zverev after prosecutors and lawyers for both sides reached an agreement. The case stemmed from allegations of domestic violence made by Zverev's former partner Brenda Patea.
Zverev, 25, was accused of assaulting Patea during the 2019 Laver Cup tournament in Geneva, Switzerland. Patea alleged that Zverev hit her head against a wall, pushed her into a bathtub, and bit her on the arm.
Zverev has denied the allegations, calling them "unfounded" and "false." He has also said that he is the victim of a "smear campaign" by Patea.
The Berlin court ended the trial on Friday with the agreement of state prosecutors and lawyers for Zverev and Patea. The terms of the agreement are confidential.
Zverev's lawyer, Clemens Werner, said in a statement that his client is "relieved that this matter has been resolved."
"Alexander Zverev has always maintained his innocence and is pleased that this has been recognized by the court," Werner said.
Patea's lawyer, Stephan Bong, said in a statement that his client is "satisfied with the outcome of the case."
"Brenda Patea has always maintained that the allegations against Alexander Zverev are true and is pleased that the court has recognized this," Bong said.
The case has been a major distraction for Zverev, who is one of the top tennis players in the world. He is currently ranked No. 3 in the world and has won 19 ATP Tour titles.
Zverev is expected to return to competition at the Monte Carlo Masters tournament later this month.
The allegations against Zverev have been a major blow to his reputation. He has been dropped by several sponsors and has been criticized by fans and fellow players.
If the allegations had been proven, Zverev could have faced a prison sentence. However, the fact that the case has been dropped means that he is now free to resume his career.
It is not clear what the future holds for Zverev. He is still a very talented player, but he will need to work hard to rebuild his reputation.
