‘Don’t think that Alexander Zverev failed against Djokovic for mental reasons,’ reckons Boris Becker


‘Don’t think that Alexander Zverev failed against Djokovic for mental reasons,’ reckons Boris Becker

Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev

World No.3 Alexander Zverev has been enjoying a highly productive time on the ATP tour, this year. While he did exceedingly well in Australia and the French Open, the German’s dream run, from winning the gold medal at the Tokyo games to his semifinal appearance in New York was pleasing to see.

Not only did Zverev win the gold at the Tokyo Olympics, but he did it in grand fashion by upsetting World No.1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals. Later, he carried his rich form onto the ATP Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati. With consistent shot-making, the 24-year-old also ended up winning the Southern and Western Open.

An unbeaten Zverev then entered the 2021 US Open as one of the prime contenders. As he swept past the opponents, he remained in striking distance of his first Grand Slam title. Unfortunately, the No.4 seed went down to the 20-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic in five, gruelling sets.

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Although Zverev lost, many ex-players and pundits lauded the German’s efforts and projected a maiden Major title in 2022. Speaking to Eurosport, over a podcast, former World No.1 Boris Becker too reckoned that his countryman didn’t falter in the semis due to mental issues, or lack of temperament. Becker further added that Zverev is on the cusp of winning a Grand Slam soon, if he can continue his dream run.

“The statistics against the Top 10 in Grand Slam exist, we cannot deny them but I do not think that Alexander failed against Djokovic for mental reasons. It’s the best Zverev I’ve seen so far and if he continues like this he will be the next in the young guard to win a Grand Slam tournament,” the six-time Major winner opined.

Zverev to play Laver Cup

Alexander Zverev
Alexander Zverev

Sascha is now expected to play the 2021 Laver Cup in Boston, where he will be one of the vital cogs of Team Europe. The German has been affiliated with the cash-rich event since its inception.

After the conclusion of the Laver Cup, Zverev is likely to play the ATP Masters event in Indian Wells, followed by the Bercy Masters and then finally the World Tour Finals in Turin.

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