Alexander Zverev has hit again at criticism of his latest kind as he prepares to defend his title on the Italian Open.
Speaking Tuesday, the world No. 2 acknowledged he’s been labeled “the worst No. 2 in history” by critics, calling the remarks undeserved.
Although Zverev claimed the Munich title final month, he has struggled to make deep runs elsewhere – failing to advance previous the quarterfinals at any match since his runner-up end on the Australian Open, the place he misplaced to top-ranked Jannik Sinner.
With Sinner serving a three-month doping suspension, Zverev had a major likelihood to grab the No. 1 rating – one which in the end slipped away. Now, each gamers return to motion in Rome, every in search of redemption for various causes.
Zverev admitted he endured “two bad months” after the Australian Open however stated he’s again on monitor and nonetheless believes he can attain the highest of the rankings.
“I’m there (at No. 2) because I won tournaments. I’m there because I’ve had results. The ranking system doesn’t lie. You get points for winning matches, you get points for winning titles,” he stated.
Zverev additionally identified that inconsistency has affected different high gamers this 12 months.
“Do you think Novak (Djokovic) is happy with his results? Do you think Carlos (Alcaraz) is happy with his results?” he requested. “I’m not happy with my results. But at the end of the day, in big matches and big moments, I still believe the top players will rise – and I still believe I’m going to find my tennis for the biggest tournaments.”
Zverev has a first-round bye in Rome, the place he received in 2017 and once more in 2024. He will face both Camilo Ugo Carabelli or a qualifier/fortunate loser in his opening match.
“I feel confident here. I really like the place, so I hope I can play as well as last year and win a lot of matches,” he stated.
Source: www.dailysabah.com