In 2024, Alexander Zverev’s primary focus is defending his Olympic gold medal, but the world number seven emphasizes his readiness to compete at Grand Slam events as well.
The German, who secured the men’s singles title at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by defeating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-1 and overcoming Novak Djokovic in the semis, holds that Olympic experience in high regard and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to defend his title in Paris next year. Speaking in Sydney, where he represents Germany at the mixed teams United Cup, Zverev expressed his excitement, stating that the Olympics are always special, considering they occur once every four years.
“I think the Olympics are always very, very special,” added Zverev at a news conference.
“It is probably the biggest event of the year, in my opinion, in my eyes, because the Olympics is once every four years. It is special in that regard.”
“I’m definitely looking forward to being in the Olympic Village again,” and “being in these smallish apartments where you’re all together, just enjoying the time. That’s what I did in Tokyo. Kind of worked out very well,” he said.
Alexander Zverev eyes a stellar 2024:
Zverev, part of a German team featuring three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber on her return from maternity leave, is set to face Italy in their first match. Reflecting on the unique atmosphere of the Olympics, he looks forward to being in the Olympic Village again and cherishing the camaraderie in shared living spaces. Despite his serious ankle injury at the 2022 French Open a year ago,
Zverev has made significant strides in his recovery. At the United Cup, where he initially appeared disconsolate, he gradually improved, reaching the French Open semi-finals and clinching ATP titles in Hamburg and Chengdu.
Recalling his mindset from the previous year, Zverev noted his realistic approach when he openly stated he wasn’t aiming to win the Australian Open. Now ranked number seven globally, he expresses a shift in perspective, asserting his status as a contender. With renewed confidence and recent victories against top players, Zverev is eager to embrace the challenge of being a competitive force once again.
“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 said.
“I’m past that now. I’m number seven in the world. I won a few 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 want to be,” he concluded.
