(Rome) The world’s first racket Novak Djokovic has not won a tournament this year. Rafael Nadal, who has won Roland-Garros 14 times (a record), is not in his best form. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz missed tournaments due to injuries. Additionally, Daniil Medvedev has only lifted one trophy on clay in his career.
Considering the situation of the members of the top 5Alexander Zverev’s chances of making it far at Roland Garros look quite good, having just won his second title at the Rome Open, in Italy.
Roland-Garros, a major tournament played on clay in Paris, begins this weekend.
“I am someone who, when I don’t play well, I can lose to anyone, but when I play well, I can beat anyone,” Zverev said after lifting the trophy in Rome. This is my state of mind. That’s how I see the situation. I know I have to focus on myself, find my rhythm in Paris, like I did here [à Rome]. Then everything is in my hands. »
Zverev, fourth in the world since Monday’s rankings update, won 44 of his 49 serving points in his 6-4, 7-5 victory over Nicolas Jarry (16e), Sunday.
PHOTO GUGLIELMO MANGIAPANE, REUTERS
Alexander Zverev won the Rome tournament on Sunday.
The journey has not been easy for Zverev, who tore three ligaments in his right ankle in the semi-final against Nadal two years ago at Roland Garros.
Zverev reached the semi-finals of the Paris tournament three years in a row. The German was quick to say that this is the tournament he most wants to win.
“This is the tournament where I have the most memories, whether good or bad,” said the athlete. Yes, at the US Open, I was two points away from the title. But at Roland Garros, I was so close to the final in 2021. In 2022, I believe I was playing some of my best tennis ever. These things are still in my head. This is the tournament I want to do well in. »
Zverev won gold at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago, in addition to winning the season-ending ATP Finals twice. A major tournament triumph is the only “important” element missing from his career.
Djokovic opted to compete in the Geneva Open this week, with an eye toward playing more matches on clay before Roland Garros. Sinner and Alcaraz are back on the training pitch following injuries to their hip and right forearm, respectively.
PHOTO SALVATORE DI NOLFI, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Novak Djokovic
“Nole will be at his best, you’ll see,” Zverev said. Rafa will play much better tennis than in Madrid and Rome. I am sure of it. The other two, it just depends on their health. If they are healthy, they are two of the best players in the world and there is no doubt about that. »