(VIDEO) "Hello, my name is Jannik": Alexander Zverev hilariously quips to Rome Open crowd after second title at Foro Italico
ATP
Alexander Zverev hilariously attempted to take Jannik Sinner's spot as the top dog in Rome after he saw off Nicolas Jarry in the final of the 2024 Rome Open on Sunday evening.
Zverev who sealed his first ATP Masters 1000 title in the city has long been loved by Italian fans and he opened his speech by saying: "Hello, my name is Jannik."
He defeated the Chilean 6-4, 7-5 in the final. It is a landmark title for Zverev who has not captured one at this level since prior to his ankle injury at 2022 Roland Garros. He goes in two years later albeit under a cloud due to off court issues, but as one of the favourites.
He has also taken the mantle this week as a fans' favourite much to the behest of fans on social media who are quick to point out about the trial. But it is a special title for Zverev and one that he will savour amid all the outside noise. He moves on to Paris now and will aim to continue that work. Also he praised Nicolas Jarry after saying that he would get further chances with his opponent having to fight back tears.
"Obviously winning my first ever [Masters] here in Rome and winning my first after my injury also in Rome, so Rome is a very special place for me," Zverev said. "It is a very, very special week."
"He is playing huge and you can see by the players he has beaten here this week," Zverev said when asked about Jarry. "Playing incredible tennis. I told him if he continues to play like that he will have many chances at this level. Today I am extremely happy to be the winner."
Alexander Zverev attempted to endear himself further to the Rome crowd with a post match joke.
But this crowd support is nothing new. He previously touched on this after the semi-final and it is always a country where he is well received. "It's funny that when I play in Italy, actually one of the three countries I would say where I get the most support. I mean, really, I feel like I'm Italian when I play here. I get so much support, so much love, so much energy from the crowd all the time. Even today," Zverev said.
"The Italians are a crazy crowd, and I love that. I love energy. I love when they're loud. And when they're for you, it's even better. I would not replace Jannik, but maybe for this week, if they can see it like that, I'm happy about that."
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