Alexander Zverev’s tumultuous “golden swing” took another dramatic turn as he was unceremoniously ousted from the Mexican Open ATP 500 event by teenage qualifier Learner Tien.
The world No. 2’s swift and reportedly abrupt departure from the tournament site, while Tien was still celebrating his stunning victory, has sparked widespread discussion and added to the tournament’s already chaotic atmosphere, compounded by a widespread illness outbreak.
Tien, currently ranked No. 83 in the world, delivered a masterclass in resilience, defeating Zverev 6-3, 6-4 in a round of 16 match that lasted an hour and 28 minutes.
The 19-year-old American qualifier, who has been on a remarkable upward trajectory, showcased his composure and skill, particularly after trailing 4-1 in the second set, reeling off five consecutive games to seal the upset.
However, the aftermath of the match was overshadowed by Zverev’s immediate exit.
Despite pre-match announcements that he would participate in a post-match press conference regardless of the outcome, Zverev reportedly bypassed his media obligations, leaving the court and the stadium to depart in a waiting car.
“He just left. He was gone before Learner was even finished with his on-court interview,” reported tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg.
This abrupt departure has fueled speculation about Zverev’s state of mind and physical condition, especially amidst a wave of illnesses sweeping through the tournament.
Casper Ruud withdrew from his round-of-16 match, citing a “stomach illness,” while Tommy Paul also pulled out due to a “stomach ailment.”
Fourth seed Holger Rune retired after just three games, confirming he was suffering from “food poisoning.” Alex Michelsen also required medical attention during his match, adding to the growing list of affected players.
“There have been rumours that Zverev was battling food poisoning, which is believed to be going around the tournament,” stated a source close to the event.
“The number of players affected is highly unusual.”
Zverev’s early exit continues his disappointing run in the Latin American swing, following early losses in Buenos Aires and Rio.
Meanwhile, Learner Tien was understandably ecstatic about his career-best victory. “I just went out there and tried to control my side of the court,” Tien said during his on-court interview. “Obviously, I knew it was going to be a tough match. To come through feels great… I think just focusing on what I can control and keeping my cool as best as I can has really taken me a long way.”
Tien’s recent successes, including a final appearance at the Next Gen ATP Finals in December and a round of 16 appearance at the Australian Open, where he upset Daniil Medvedev, have solidified his status as a rising star in men’s tennis.
