Alexander Zverev given suspended eight-week ban for striking umpire's chair

Alexander Zverev could face an eight-week ban from tennis if he repeats the behavior that led to his expulsion from the Mexican Open.

Zverev has been found guilty of a major offence.

If he commits another similar offence within a year, he will be banned.

Unsportsmanlike behavior and verbal or physical abuse of anyone at a tournament are similar.

A further suspended $25,000 fine has been handed to Zverev.

The longest suspension in men's tennis to date was a 16-week ban given to Australian Nick Kyrgios for swearing at a chair umpire and smashing two racquets.

The decision must be appealed by 11 March.

'Some will consider it too lenient' - Analysis

Russell is a tennis correspondent.

The extra punishment for Zverev, who was found to have committed a major offence for an ugly pattern of behavior, is on hold.

Due to injury, the Australian only played half a dozen tournaments during the 16 week suspension.

Zverev will play about 20 events over the next year.

He can't afford to be disrespectful or aggressive to anyone in that period of time.

Some will consider a suspended sentence too light, but the onus is on Zverev to change his behavior permanently.