Tennis icon Billie Jean King has found herself at the center of a social media storm this week after posting a congratulatory message to Alexander Zverev for his 2026 US Open triumph. The legendary advocate for equality, who has long championed women's rights in sports, is now facing a wave of criticism from fans who question why she would celebrate a player with a history of abuse allegations.
Zverev's journey to the title was a landmark moment in his career. After years of being labeled the best men's player without a Grand Slam, he finally broke through by winning the French Open earlier this season. The German then backed it up with a dominant run at Flushing Meadows, capping it off with a straight-sets victory over Ben Shelton in the final on Sunday.
So locked in was Zverev that he didn't even realize the match was over when he clinched the fourth set. "In that moment I was in the zone, a lot," Zverev said. "I didn't hear noise at all. I was in this kind of tunnel where I just didn't hear anything."
Shortly after the win, King took to X to offer her congratulations, writing: "Congratulations to Alexander Zverev, 2026 U.S. Open champion!" The post, intended as a simple gesture of sportsmanship, quickly ignited a firestorm of backlash.
Dozens of fans flooded the replies, expressing disappointment and anger. "You always side with the men," one user wrote. "So very disappointing." Another added, "You heard the backlash after the French Open and you still laud him?! Of all people smdh." A third chimed in, "Sorry Billie Jean, I won't celebrate this unapologetic women abuser. No sports organization needs these types of players."
The criticism stems from serious allegations that have shadowed Zverev for years. In May 2020, his former partner Brenda Patea accused him of "physically abusing and damaging the health" of her. Three years later, a German court issued a fine of nearly $500,000 against the two-time Grand Slam champion. Additionally, another ex-girlfriend, Olya Sharypova, accused him of punching her in the face, though the ATP Tour found insufficient evidence to sanction him.
Zverev has consistently denied the allegations. In a statement, he said, "I very much regret that she makes such statements because the accusations are simply not true. We had a relationship, but it ended a long time ago. Why Olga is making these accusations now, I just don't know. I really hope that the two of us will find a way to deal with each other again in a reasonable and respectful way." He has remained largely silent on the matter in recent seasons.
King's post has reignited a broader conversation about the intersection of sports achievement and personal conduct. Many fans argue that celebrating athletes with such histories sends the wrong message, especially coming from someone who has been a vocal advocate for women's rights. This controversy echoes similar debates in other sports, such as officiating controversies in the NFL and US Open fan reactions.
As the tennis world continues to celebrate Zverev's achievement, the backlash against King serves as a reminder that public figures are often held to a higher standard, and that their words carry weight beyond the court.
