"Beating Djokovic in Tokyo and Turin made me feel invincible"- Alexander Zverev
Alexander Zverev recently admitted that defeating Novak Djokovic at Tokyo Olympics 2020 and at ATP Finals 2021 made him feel "invincible." The German also believes that along with him, Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev are likely to "dominate" the tour in the upcoming season.
Alexander Zverev was honored with the 2021 German Sportsman of the Year award on Sunday. The German enjoyed a phenomenal 2021 season, winning six titles on the ATP tour and a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. His performances lifted him to a career-high ranking of No. 3.
The 2021 season of ATP Top 4: Alexander Zverev
🏆 6 titles
🥇 Olympic champion
✨ ATP Finals
💪 2 Masters 1000
▪️ 0 final lost
▪️ 58 wins - 15 defeats (79% wins)
▪️ World No.3 https://t.co/HXRDedXXTg
In an interview with Sky Sports, Zverev said he gained a lot of confidence from his performances in the 2021 season.
"In the last six months it has been Novak, Daniil and I who have dominated and I believe that we will follow that trend throughout the following season. I have gained a lot of confidence with what I have achieved this season, the greatest improvement I have made was mentally," said Zverev.
Zverev clearly hinted that tennis is going through a transition phase and the hegemony of the 'Big 3' is slowly nearing its end. Rafael Nadal won just two titles and Roger Federer featured in only five tournaments this year.
Zverev said beating Djokovic at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics in the semifinals and denying the Serb a Golden Slam added a spring in his step.
"I feel much more relaxed on the track and willing to show everyone what I am capable of. Beating Djokovic in Tokyo and Turin has made me feel invincible," added the World No. 3 player.
Djokovic, who had appeared untouchable since arriving at the Tokyo Olympics in pursuit of a gold medal, lost to No. 4 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany in three sets: 1-6, 6-3, 6-1.
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Alexander Zverev reveals his plans ahead for upcoming season
Alexander Zverev spoke about his objectives ahead of the 2022 tennis season during his interaction with EuroSport.
The German said his goals for the upcoming season are to win a Grand Slam and become World No. 1. He hopes that both his dreams come true simultaneously at the 2022 Australian Open.
"I reached objectives when things were worse. If at the end of the day you do not believe in yourself, who will? There are two things I haven't achieved yet. Win Grand Slam and become world number one. I hope all this is already happening in Australia," mentioned Zverev.
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