For tennis star Alexander Zverev, his first-round win over Rafael Nadal at the French Open is more than just a normal victory
For Alexander Zverev, the sensational first-round victory against Rafael Nadal at the French Open was also an emotional release.
“I have to be honest and admit that I’ve been waiting for this match for two years,” said the Olympic champion from Hamburg: “The memories of 2022 are still there. I really wanted to play Rafa again.”
Two years ago, the 27-year-old suffered a serious ankle injury in the semi-final duel against the clay court king from Spain, which left Zverev fearing for his career at times. After months of rehab and a difficult return to action, the former US Open finalist is now back in strong form and recently won the title at the Masters in Rome
French Open: Zverev jubilant after his coup over Nadal
Also in Paris, where he has always reached the semi-finals in the past three years, Zverev now has big plans
“I don’t think I’ve ever started like this in the first round of a Grand Slam,” said Zverev: “The tournament is starting somewhere new for me now. I hope I can continue to play tennis like this and do one or two things better. “
