Locked out of account

Using a recovery key is an option which you have to intentionally select. It won't automatically set one up.

From: How to generate a recovery key - Apple Support

- If you forget your Apple ID password and do not know your recovery key, you can try to regain access using your trusted device protected by a passcode.

- "You can [then] generate a new recovery key from Settings or System Preferences on a trusted device signed in with your Apple ID." See the article for details about how to do this on different types of equipment (Apple equipment only).

- When you generate a recovery key, you can't use the standard procedure for account recovery as outlined in this support article --> How to use account recovery when you can’t reset your Apple ID password - Apple Support .

- "Using a recovery key is more secure, but it means that you’re responsible for maintaining access to your trusted devices and your recovery key. If you lose both of these items, you could be locked out of your account permanently."

- Read the article for more details.

I have never been in that situation so all I know is what it says in the support article. Refer to this document for ways to contact Apple ➞ Choose your country or region - Official Apple Support

Select your country (also look for "other" regions), then a product. If you don't see one that handles your issue then keep experimenting with selections until you reach one that gets you a chat session or a telephone call and get the representative to redirect you.

or:

Contact Apple for support and service by telephone ➞ Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support