Bird takes aim at Zverev on messy day for German

MELBOURNE : Melbourne's circling seagulls took aim at Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open on Thursday, making a mess of the German's trademark blonde locks during his shock defeat by Michael Mmoh.

The former world number two, who is making his way back from serious injury, was a set to the good when the pesky bird unleashed a dollop of poo on his head.

Realising what it was, Zverev offered a wry smile and walked to the chair where he used his towel to remove the offending excrement to laughter from the crowd.

Sadly it was to be no lucky charm for the 25-year-old 12th seed Zverev who went on to lose 6-7(1) 6-4 6-3 6-2.