For the three-time Grand Slam champion, it’s only a matter of time before the French Open winner becomes the world No. 1.
Following his French Open triumph, Angelique Kerber believes Alexander Zverev is capable of winning more Grand Slam titles—and even reaching the top of the world rankings.
“You become number one when you play consistently well for a year. He’s done that so far. If he keeps playing this well, the number-one ranking will come naturally,” said the 38-year-old on the sidelines of her farewell match in Bad Homburg.
Kerber believes Zverev is capable of more Grand Slam victories
For Kerber, who herself held the world No. 1 ranking for over 34 weeks and is a three-time Grand Slam champion, Zverev is also a contender for the Wimbledon title. “He’s gained so much confidence in Paris,” said Kerber, who triumphed at the grass-court highlight on Church Road in 2018. It was the last German title at one of the four major tournaments—until Zverev won in Paris two weeks ago.
“It’s wonderful for German tennis to have another Grand Slam champion,” said Kerber: “After me, now it’s Sascha, who has fought for years. That’s why I believe he’s capable of even more.”
This long-awaited success could be a weight off Zverev’s shoulders, Kerber believes: “I’m sure he’ll now be able to play a bit more freely at the Grand Slams.” Zverev has yet to win a tournament on grass; during his warm-up event for Wimbledon in Halle/Westphalia, he was forced to withdraw due to serious physical problems. The third Grand Slam of the year begins on June 29.
Kerber will be working as an analyst for the pay-TV provider Amazon Prime Video during the second week of Wimbledon. On Saturday, Kerber took to the court one last time. The mother of two won her farewell match in Bad Homburg against former world No. 1 Ana Ivanovic of Serbia, 6-3, 7-5. Boris Becker was also in attendance.