Alexander Zverev’s first aim in 2004 is to defend his Olympic gold medal, but the world number seven says he is also ready to compete at Grand Slams.
Alexander Zverev’s first aim in 2004 is to defend his Olympic gold medal, but the world number seven says he is also ready to compete at Grand Slams. After defeating Novak Djokovic in the semis, the German defeated Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-1 to win the men’s singles title at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It was a memory he will never forget, and the 26-year-old is eager to return to the Olympic Games in Paris next year. “As defending champion, it’s definitely something I’m looking forward to,” he said late Friday in Sydney, where he is representing Germany in the mixed teams United Cup.
Germany, who has three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber back from maternity leave, plays Italy first later Saturday.
“I think the Olympics are always very, very special,” Zverev said during a press conference.
“In my opinion, it is probably the biggest event of the year, because the Olympics only happen every four years.” It is unique in that regard.
“I’m definitely looking forward to being in the Olympic Village again,” she says, “and being in these smallish apartments where you’re all together, just having fun.” That’s exactly what I did in Tokyo. “It worked out pretty well,” he stated.
Zverev was still healing from a major ankle injury sustained at the 2022 French Open when he made his comeback at the United Cup a year ago.
But he gradually improved throughout the season, reaching the French Open semi-finals and winning ATP titles in Hamburg and Chengdu.
“Last year I came to the Australian Open, and I openly said…, I’m not here to win the tournament, which is not the mindset I was going into tournaments usually,” he was quoted as saying.
“I’m passed that now. I’m number seven in the world. I won a couple titles last year where I’ve beaten some great players, as well.
“I can look forward to being a contender again. “That’s what I aspire to be,” he stated.
