June 07, (THEWILL) – German tennis star, Alexander Zverev, avoided conviction on Friday, after settling an assault case brought by his ex-girlfriend, Brenda Patea. The world number four agreed to pay €200,000 to resolve accusations he choked Patea in 2020.
The settlement allowed Zverev to contest his French Open semi-final later the same day unburdened by legal proceedings. Inga Wahlen, spokeswoman for Berlin’s criminal courts, stated Patea “was no longer interested in pursuing the prosecution”. She explained both parties wished “to resolve this smouldering conflict peacefully” for the sake of their child.
While avoiding a conviction, Zverev maintained his innocence through lawyers’ statements. He appealed against an initial €450,000 fine last October over claims he briefly choked Patea, causing breathing difficulties. The alleged assault occurred in a Berlin apartment building stairwell in May 2020.
Most of the €200,000 settlement will go to state coffers, with the remainder donated to charitable organisations. The accord enabled Zverev to prepare with a clear mind for his French Open last four clash against Casper Ruud. Victory would see him reach a second successive Roland Garros final.
Zverev’s ability to concentrate fully on tennis may prove crucial in a wide-open men’s draw missing Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. However, the German will be relieved to finally draw a line under damaging assault allegations that clouded the start of his 2024 campaign.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
