Alexander Zverev: 'I won the gold medal for Germany, will wear it until I get home'

At 24, Alexander Zverev has already achieved some pretty impressive stuff. The German has been the leading figure of the players born in 1996 or later for years, entering the top 3, winning the ATP Finals, four Masters 1000 trophies and 16 titles overall. Last September, Alexander served for the US Open title against Dominic Thiem, only to squander his chances and miss a massive opportunity to become a Major winner. Alexander is yet to taste a Major glory, but he experienced a unique feeling on Sunday when he conquered the Olympic gold medal for Germany in Tokyo.

In the semi-final, Alexander came from 6-1, 3-2 down against world no. 1 Novak Djokovic, starting all over and taking ten out of the last 11 games to claim a notable victory and securing a medal. Zverev was the favorite in the title clash against Karen Khachanov, and he beat the Russian 6-3, 6-1 to become the first German gold medal winner at the Olympic Games in tennis since Steffi Graf in 1988! Thrilled about what he has achieved, Alexander said that he would wear the medal around his neck until he gets home, feeling incredibly proud and stating that the medal belongs to his country. 

Alexander Zverev shared thoughts about winning the Olympic Games gold medal.

"This is the most notable title I have ever won. I have always wanted to achieve this, and now I see myself with a gold medal hanging around my neck. What I'm feeling right now is something that I will not describe in my life. I would say that the last four sets that I have played here have been quite good. Right now, I would dare to say that few people are happier than I'm. I have a golden thing on my neck that is nothing like the chains that I usually wear. It has been tough to get it, but very satisfying. I will not take it off until I get home. My team and all the athletes here have supported each other; we are a true family. I have won the gold not for me but for Germany. This medal belongs to my country, and it has been the best week of my life. I have not played a single second for myself: I have played for everyone in the Olympic village. I have played for everyone: my parents, family, daughter, everyone who has been excited at home. That's why I've played this way. I'm feeling something incredible right now," Alexander Zverev said.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2WRP4fb