Alexander Zverev won the Inter BNL d’Italia title in Rome on Sunday, making himself a strong contender at Roland Garros, which starts on May 26.
The German first lifted the trophy in the Italian capital in 2017 and repeated it by defeating surprise finalist Nicolas Jarry 6-4 7-5.
The Chilean, who beat Stefanos Tsitsipas and Tommy Paul to reach the final, fought hard to force the match into a decider, saving three match points but losing just five points on serve all afternoon Zverev finally forced a decisive error and sank into the dirt with joy.
It was the German’s sixth Masters 1000 title, which will see him overtake Daniil Medvedev on Monday to become world No. 4, and first since he suffered a serious ankle injury at Roland Garros two years ago.
“It means a lot,” said Zverev, who lifted his first trophy since breaking his ankle in the 2022 French Open semifinals.
“Obviously, I won my first (Masters) title in Rome and my first title since my injury, and Rome is a very special place for me. A very, very special week.”
Zverev will now turn his attention to the French Open, which starts next Sunday, heading to Paris as one of the favorites at one of the most open men’s Grand Slam tournaments in years.
“The focus is on Paris,” Zverev said. “But let me enjoy this for a day or so, and then I’ll focus entirely on Paris.”
With neither Novak Djokovic nor Rafael Nadal in good form, while Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are both battling injuries, the road could be tough for many Possible competitors are wide open.
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A member of Zverev’s support team tried to balance on the rollers but hit the floor in a violent crash!
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