“People keep trying to wipe my smile, but I’m still smiling” Alexander Zverev addresses the backlash against him


Daniil Medvedev ousted Alexander Zverev to win his first title of the year at Paris Masters 2020. Medvedev emerged victorious over Zverev to lay claim to his third Masters 1000 title, after wins in Shanghai and Cincinnati. The Russian downed Alexander 5-7, 6-4, 6-1. The duo produced a high-quality final.
Even though Zverev won the first set, his level was significantly seen taking a tumble as the match progressed. While this may very well be due to the utter will of his opponent, Sascha managed to snag just one game in the deciding set.
Zverev’s comments after his loss to Medvedev

Sascha’s winning streak of 12 was broken by an eager Daniil. He failed to back up his 2 title wins in Cologne. However, the German seemed pleased with his performance.
In his post-match interview, he said, “I know that there’s going to be a lot of people that right now are trying to wipe a smile off my face. But under this mask I’m smiling brightly. I feel incredible on court. Everything is great in my life. The people who are trying can keep trying.”
He was referring to people’s vivid opinion about him in these comments. Zverev has been dowsed in controversy ever since his former partner Olya Sharypova detailed the physical and mental abuse she suffered when she was with Alexander. His and any post that he’s a part of is flooded with #IStandWithOlya in the comments.
Even so, the 23-year-old will now head on to contend in the final showdown of the season, the Nitto ATP Finals, where he has lifted the trophy before.