Alexander Zverev about the Laver Cup: "It is not a pure show event!"
Alexander Zverev once again underlined the importance of the Laver Cup following his defeat against the American John Isner. The event did not need any upgrading, it was said by number 6 of the ATP world ranking on Saturday afternoon in Geneva.
by Florian Heer from Geneva
last edit: Sep 21, 2019, 07:23 pm
If you look at the comments on the social networks about tennis these days, you will soon find that opinions about the Laver Cup are divided. On the one hand, there are the supporters who feel that the event, which is undoubtedly unique in its format and peppered with top players, is the perfect place to be. On the other hand, the sporty insignificance of the event is also gladly contrasted.
Zverev with a second appearance in Geneva
Alexander Zverev offers a special kind of comparison between a regular ATP tournament and the Laver Cup. The 22-year-old from Hamburg is making a guest appearance in western Switzerland for the second time this season. After winning the title at the Geneva Open in May, another performance follows this weekend in the bulging Palexpo arena.
"Both were incredibly important tournaments for me," said Zverev. “I played the ATP tournament in Geneva after a pretty bad clay court season and I finally managed to win my first tournament of the year. It is also very important here. You play for the team and represent your continent. The matches are very good and very close. Both have their own value. "
Zverev as a veteran of a young event
Zverev and Federer are the only two representatives of Team Europe who have been involved in all three editions of the Laver Cup. "It is not a pure show event", the number 6 in the world rankings emphasizes the importance. “The atmosphere was insane everywhere. Chicago was very special because we played in a special stadium. However, each event has its own character and I am happy to be able to be there for the third time. ”
The team spirit plays a special role here. In a sport that is primarily shaped by individual athletes, a team competition always has a certain exotic touch. "During the first few days, some may be a little shy," says Zverev about the meeting of the international tennis stars. “But after a while everything is fine. Roger and Rafa in particular get along so well that everyone else seems to be loosening up. The atmosphere in the team is really very good. ”
Federer and Nadal as draft horses
Nadal in particular seems to be there with all her heart and soul. "He is someone who gives an incredible amount of energy," says Zverev. “He has an incredible value for the team even outside the field. Rafa and Roger look relatively similar to tennis. So there is little difference in advice. ”
Another combined participation, probably the two most popular players in men's tennis worldwide, would also look good on the Laver Cup in the coming year. And maybe the critics' voices will become quieter as the tournament's tradition grows. The future will show.