“He can do whatever he wants,” Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils reflect on their heated moment during the Hamburg Open final

Fils beat Zverev 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(1) to win his maiden ATP 500 title.

“He can do whatever he wants,” Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils reflect on their heated moment during the Hamburg Open final

Arthur Fils(L), Alexander Zverev(R) (Via Imago)

Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils have reflected on their heated moment during their clash in the Hamburg Open final. Local favorite Zverev was in good form in the tournament and reached the final with ease. 

Meanwhile, Fils, who had a good run at Wimbledon, played even better on his return to the clay courts. He put in strong performances to set up a title clash with Zverev. In the final, the 20-year-old went toe-to-toe with his experienced opponent. 

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With a wide array of shots and even louder celebrations, Fils became the crowd’s favorite. During the match, he tried an underarm serve at the end of the third set and the ball was called out. Zverev was unhappy with that move and exchanged a few words with Fils.

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In his post-match interview, Zverev admitted that there was nothing wrong with Fils trying the underhand serve and stated that he was not upset by it.

I didn't find it disrespectful at all. He can do whatever he wants. And I don't think it's a bad tactic either. I'm 10 meters from the baseline and I'm tired at one point in the third set.
Alexander Zverev said 
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Arthur Fils’s take on his heated argument against Alexander Zverev

While Alexander Zverev revealed that he was fine with the shot and was not angry at Arthur Fils, the Frenchman revealed that the German was actually a little unhappy about it.  He did however state that his relationship with Zverev remains as good as ever.

Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils
Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils (Via Imago)
It's nothing important. He was upset about my serve, yes. But after three hours, I had cramps and couldn't serve. I didn't really understand, but it doesn't change our good relationship and the fact that he's a great champion.
Arthur Fils said in his post-match interview

Despite that heated argument, Fils managed to force a tie-break in the third set, where he overcame Zverev to clinch the Hamburg Open title. The win has also seen him break into the Top 20 of the ATP rankings for the first time in his career.

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