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Zverev practice row: what really happened in Shanghai

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A practice row shook Shanghai tennis

A short video sparked claims about Zverev, Hewitt and Shelton. Here is the story in 15 seconds.

The booking

Zverev had Court 5 booked

His slot ran from 10:30 a.m. to noon, fans said. Shelton and Hewitt were due next.

The claim

Fans said he arrived late

Fans said Zverev reached court near 11:50 a.m. They said he stayed past his slot.

Court 10

The next pair moved courts

Video showed Hewitt talking with Zverev. Fans said the pair then moved to Court 10.

His reply

Zverev denied the story

Zverev laughed off the claims. He asked how people could make such things up.

What is known

No official has confirmed a rule break

Tournament staff have not confirmed any rule break. No video shows the full booking sheet.

Why it matters

Why the clip spread so fast

Zverev is a star. Hewitt is a famous name in Australia. Fans fear a young player was pushed aside.

The context

Court time rules matter

Top players often get longer practice time. A short clip can still look unfair to fans.

On court

Zverev then won his match

He beat Quentin Halys in three sets on October 11. It was his 60th win of the season.

What's next

Next up: Alexander Bublik

Zverev faces Bublik in round four. He has never won the Shanghai title.

Full story

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