Alexander Zverev must be living by the inspirational quote of John Wooden – “Talent is God given, be humble.”  After two years, the German has returned to the same old level but his attitude remains as plain as ever. He might have replaced Carlos Alcaraz for the second spot, but it hardly has any impact on him. While expressing his happiness in his ascent, the German offered a highly generous take on Carlos Alcaraz. What was it?

The German player entered the 2024 Paris Masters finals beating Holger Rune. Following this victory, he has replaced Alcaraz as the world no. 2 with a stunning record of 65-20 and a singles title in the 2024 Italian Open. The ATP will update his new ranking this coming Monday. The descending one, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz who was previously world’s number two had a disappointing defeat against France’s Ugo Humbert in Paris. Despite the shuffle, the new world no. 2 has a heartfelt compliment for the Spaniard.

The German ATP star was asked if his latest rank means anything special. In his response, he said, “It’s nice, for sure. It’s nice to be back at the highest position that I have been so far. Of course I want to get higher, but for me still Jannik has the best year this season, for sure, and then Carlos had the second-best year. He won two Grand Slams.” Zverev’s statement showcased both humility and love for the sport.

Zverev had more to say for Alcaraz. “I know that I’m ahead of him in the rankings maybe, but for me he won Wimbledon and Roland Garros. Those are two massive titles. So they are still the two best players in the world, in my opinion, at the moment,” he said.

Zverev has reached his high water mark again after the injury in the 2022 French Open that almost put his career at risk. The ATP star rolled his ankle and tore three lateral tendons in his ankle while facing Rafael Nadal. He had to undergo several months of treatment. However, the days of despair are gone in the past. Zverev will face off against Ugo Humbert in the finals.

Zverev always had a thing for Alcaraz. Even after his defeat against the Spaniard, Zverev remained awestruck by Alcaraz’s talent. When the German star lost the 2024 French Open final to Alcaraz, he had an interesting compliment for his opponent.

Alexander Zverev called Carlos Alcaraz a “Hall of Famer”

The German has always seen potential in his colleague. When Alcaraz won his maiden French Open title defeating Zverev in the finals, the German said, “Congratulations Carlos. Third grand slam at 21 years old. It’s incredible. You won three different ones. You’re already a Hall of Famer and you’re only 21 years old.” That’s some real generous attitude.

Zverev deserved this feat. He’s going strong, and his chances are pretty strong in not just Paris but also at the ultimate stage. Do you think Zverev will be able to make 2024 his year with the last two events. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below: