Alexander Zverev became the first German in 23 years to win the ATP Finals title as he stunned Serbian Novak Djokovic on Sunday at the 02 Arena in London.
Zverev, who is the youngest finalist at the event at just 21 years old dismissed the 14-time Grand Slam champion 6-4, 6-3. This indeed would be no less than a major boost to the young Zverev who has already pocketed three Masters titles and as become one of the many youngsters who is tipped to take over the mantle of the sport once greats like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Djokovic call it a day.
The first set was an equally contested one with both players showing why they made it this far in the competition. But it was Zverev who displayed a fearless brand of tennis as he took down big groundstroke winners and challenged the Serb with a series of drive volleys.
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An error by Djokovic early and even made up for it with a good defence by Zverev was absolutely unstoppable on the night.
With the proceedings drawn at 4-4, Zverev smashed three aces and won 18 of the 21 points available on serve as he ran away with the first set.
At the start of the second set, the Serb once again found himself at the wrong end as the German won another break point. In the next game, Zverev slowly started losing control, hitting back-to-back double faults which helped the Serb claw his way back into the contest. But the 21-year old once again put the pressure on Djokovic and reclaim the lead.
“I am unbelievably happy. This is the biggest title I have won,” said Zverev as quoted by ESPN. The young German became the first champion from his country since the legendary Boris Becker, who had achieved similar glory in Frankfurt, way back in 1995.
“I want to congratulate Novak on a great week and how you played in the second half of the season. We have never seen it before. You barely lost a match I am actually very happy you lost one this week!”
“The crowd have been absolutely amazing all week. I appreciate you all coming out to support and show love for the sport.
“It makes it so much easier for us to play so thank you for that.”
Image credit- CBC