Following his shocking first-round exit at the Indian Wells Masters, Alexander Zverev is seeking redemption in Miami. The German survived a scare against talented Borna Coric in his tournamnet opener at the Miami Masters. He edged past the Croat in three sets 6-4, 3-6, 6-3. Folloiwng his victory over Coric, in a post-match press conference, Zverev gave a peek into his friendship with Miami Heat star, Jimmy Butler.

Alexander Zverev and Jimmy Butler’s Friendship

Alexander Zverev belongs to tennis, whereas Jimmy Butler is an NBA player. Both the games differ from their cores, having nothing in common. Despite that, both the players have maintained a fantastic relationship.

Upon being asked to address the same, Zverev said, “He is crazy. The guy is absolute crazy but I love him. I mean, he is incredible. We met for the first time in Wimbledon. He was at one of my matches and then, since then, we kind of, I don’t know, we kind of got it going.”

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“Yeah, it’s been great. I mean, it’s great having someone like him, you know, to having tough time as well because obviously, we are athletes. We are in different sports, but he is still somebody that understands how it is to be an athlete. It’s mentally tough sometimes. You know, it’s physically tough, obviously, as well, but I think the emotional part of it is difficult. So it’s great to have someone like that. Yeah, but the other day he is a clown, so am i.” He added.

Zverev so far this year

Alexander Zverev had a tremnedous 2021, winning six titles last sseason including an Olympic Gold medal as well. However, the German has not managed to continue that form into this season. He succumbed to Denis Shapovaolv in straight sets in the fourth round at the Australian Open earlier this year. He faltered in the final clash in Montepellier, losing to Alexander Bublik in straight sets.

Expecting to turn around the season, the defending champion, Zverev entered the Mexican Open in Acapulco. However, an ugly incident with the chair umpire following the conclusion of his doubles match in Acapulco saw him defaulted from the tournment.

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After crashing out of the Indian Wells Masters in his tournamnet opener against Tommy Paul, Zverev should be hoping to dig deep in Miami. He is off to a good start, edging past Coric and now will lock horns against Mackenzie McDonald in the third round in Miami!