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Alexander Zverev clashes with chair umpire during Miami Open defeat to Jannik Sinner

Originally posted on HITC | By Callum Davies | Last updated Mar 28, 2026 11:42 AM ET

Sinner knocks Zverev out of Miami Open in straight sets

Alexander Zverev’s Miami Open run came to a frustrating end in the semi-finals, as he was beaten again by Jannik Sinner.

The 28-year-old played well but never looked comfortable against Sinner, who controlled the match from start to finish. It was another reminder of how tough the Italian can be when he’s in form.

Zverev’s frustration showed at times, especially during his exchange with the chair umpire. He’s made comments before about how the game seems to favour players like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, and this felt like it came from a similar place.

Alexander Zverev clashes with chair umpire during Miami Open defeat

Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images

Despite playing well, Zverev lost the first set and was later hit with a time violation by umpire Greg Allensworth while the second set was tied at 3-3.

Frustrations were already mounting for Zverev, given Sinner’s level of play, and the warning only added to his irritation.

The three-time Grand Slam finalist didn’t take it well. Allensworth stood by his decision, telling Zverev: “The two times you went over, you weren’t waiting on him.”

Zverev replied: “I was. I know which ones you’re talking about… on the Ad side. I was.”

In the end, it didn’t matter much. Sinner was simply better on the day, taking the match 6-3, 7-6 (X) to reach the Miami Open final.

Alexander Zverev sees losing streak against Jannik Sinner grow

It’s one thing to lose a semi-final, but for Zverev, falling to Sinner again adds another layer of frustration.

Sinner has now extended his run to seven straight wins over Zverev, with the German’s last victory coming back in 2023.

The Italian broke through the year before, taking four of their five meetings in 2024 alone. The trend hasn’t changed in 2025, as Sinner is already up 2-0 this season.

This record was a big reason why many doubted Zverev’s claims that he’d win a Grand Slam soon—possibly even this year.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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