Zverev’s French Open win drew high praise from Wilander
Zverev had already reached three Grand Slam finals before finally winning his first title, making the breakthrough with a win over Flavio Cobolli at Roland Garros.
His path was made easier by early exits from Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, but that shouldn’t take away from what he achieved.
Speaking to Eurosport (quotes via Sportskeeda), Wilander said: “We have to remember that Zverev has been so consistent for a long time and he is still only 27 years old,” Wilander said.
Mats Wilander backs Zverev to become a consistent Grand Slam contender
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Wilander said: “Many people thought he wouldn’t be able to handle the pressure yet again, especially when he became the favourite following the exits of Sinner and Djokovic.
“Instead, this time he managed to turn that tension into positive energy; he motivated himself by thinking he finally had the chance of a lifetime, and played better and better as the tournament progressed and he faced tough opponents like [Rafael] Jodar and [Jacob] Mensik.
“And ultimately, he managed his emotions better in the final too. In my opinion, he’ll play more relaxed; he’s lifted a huge weight off his shoulders.”
Wilander went on to say that Alexander Zverev could now pose a serious threat to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz:
“I think that if we were looking for a third contender between Sinner and Alcaraz, we’ve finally found him. Jannik and Carlos won’t be able to rest easy anymore; in my view, Sascha will get very close to their level.”
Mats Wilander admits Flavio Cobolli caught him off guard
Even though Sinner was no longer in the mix, Italy still had three players reach the quarterfinals at Roland Garros: Matteo Berrettini, Matteo Arnaldi, and Cobolli.
Speaking about the trio, Wilander said: “You’re experiencing an incredible moment, which reminds me a bit of my Sweden in the early ’80s when, inspired by Borg, a great generation of players emerged.
“Except your movement seems more solid; you have top-level players who can win on all surfaces.
“Cobolli surprised me, but he played exceptionally well. Right now on clay he’s as good as the best. But let’s not forget that last year he reached the quarterfinals on grass at Wimbledon.
Berrettini was forced to retire during his quarterfinal match against Arnaldi due to injury.
Read more:
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
