“Rafael Nadal is the best defender,” says Alexander Zverev

“Rafael Nadal is the best defender,” says Alexander Zverev
Rafael Nadal in action during the 2020 Rolex Paris Masters

Alexander Zverev powered through a spirited Stan Wawrinka in their 2020 Rolex Paris Masters quarterfinal match, winning with a score of 6-3, 7-6(1). The German was showing early troubles in his left groin but managed to control the discomfort as he produced yet another commanding performance on-court.

After the match, Zverev talked in his post-match conference about his next opponent, Rafael Nadal, and his injury scare.

Must play smart: Alexander Zverev

Alexander Zverev

Rafael Nadal made a comeback from a set down to defeat his fellow countryman Pablo Carreno Busta in three sets.

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The World No. 7 knows the challenge that he will face against World No. 2 Nadal on Saturday. He knows what he must do, and seems to have prepared for the same.

“Against Nadal you have to play very smart,” he said. “[Nadal is] Maybe the best defender in our game. I’m not telling you the tactics,” he added.

Adding on the tough task of defeating Nadal on a stage like Paris, he had a realistic view. He said, “Even though at later stages I think all the top players always play better and it’s even more difficult to beat them. I’m looking forward to that match. It’s going to be a very difficult challenge.”

“I think Rafa is extremely motivated here. He has never won this tournament, so I think for him this is extra motivation, as well. For me as well. This is the best result so far that I have done in Paris, but I hope I can go further,” Zverev concluded.

Zverev elected to keep his strategies to himself as he looks to bag another title. He has already won back-to-back titles in his home country this year – the twin Cologne events.

Groin troubles similar to Cologne

Zverev also placed second at this year’s US Open, losing to Dominic Thiem in the finals.

Zverev also talked about the groin niggle he was showing signs of during the first set of the match.

He said, “It‘s a little bit like the [groin] injury I had against Mannarino in Cologne. I hope it is nothing too serious. I think it will be fine to play against Nadal.”

Speaking about his motivation for this tournament, he added, “I had one bad game all match. I’m happy to be in the semi-finals for the first time. I never felt well here in past. Maybe because I was tired from the season. It’s different this time.”

Also read: ATP Paris Bercy: Rafael Nadal vs Alexander Zverev Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction for Rolex Paris Masters 2020