Australian Open: Misha Zverev severely punished after abandonment in Melbourne

Mischa Zverev has come out on top in the first round of the Australian Open. The 30-year-old has to pay a fine of 45,000 US dollars (approx. 36,700 euros) because he had gone into the match against Chung Hyeon, a South Korean player. Zverev had received 47,000 US dollars as prize money.

Prior to the season, the four Grand Slam tournaments had tightened up the rules for tasks in the first round. This is to prevent sick or injured players from competing solely on account of the bonus. If they withdraw before the match, they can share the prize money with the moving Lucky Loser.

Misha Zverev had been affected by an inflammation of the left shoulder and an infection. He was the only player in the 128cc field in Melbourne to give up in the first round. A total of four players withdrew before their opening matches.