Alexander Zverev warns his peers not to underestimate Novak Djokovic at the French Open - "He's never going to be a dark horse"

Although the returning Jannik Sinner and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz are favorites to lift the French Open title, German tennis star Alexander Zverev believes Novak Djokovic is still on the same level as the best players on the planet.

The third seed is slated to face Djokovic in the Roland Garros quarterfinals, with the duo having met in the semifinals at this year's Australian Open. Zverev prevailed after the Serbian was forced to retire due to injury after losing the first set, but Djokovic has looked to be in great form as he won his 100th ATP main draw title at the Geneva Open two weeks ago.

As the duo get ready to clash for the second time this year at a Grand Slam event, Zverev was asked to give his opinion on the Serbian's current game.

“Can you tell us, did you track Novak’s game throughout the tournament?" asked the interviewer during Zverev's post-match conference after his round of 16 win in Paris. "What is your opinion on his game? Is he a favorite like Sinner, Alcaraz, or you? Is he in that circle or is he a dark horse?"

"I mean, the guy won 24 Grand Slams," responded Zverev. "He’s never gonna be a dark horse. He definitely knows how to play tennis. He definitely knows what it means to be on a big stage and play big matches. There’s no doubt about that. Of course, until this moment I’ve had to focus on my matches.
"Novak Djokovic will never be a dark horse. For me Carlos is the favorite. I would say the next three in line are Jannik, myself, and Novak. I still believe that. I still believe that in tennis and experience, Novak is up there with us. I think from now on, I have the toughest draw in the tournament. So I’m looking forward to the battles ahead. I’m looking forward to playing the best in the world."