Alexander Zverev powered his way to the third round at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The German tennis star had pulverized Colombia’s Daniel Elahi Galan 6-2 6-2 in the second round, firing 17 winners and winning 87% of the first serve points en route to the victory.

However, with Zverev just a victory away from securing a place in the last-8 of the Olympics, he spoke about tougher matches-ups coming his way during the post-match conference.

Alexander Zverev mindful of tough opponents

The No. 4 seed expressed satisfaction over his second-round win; however, he stressed the importance of further improving his game, knowing the top players would pose a greater challenge.

Placed in the same half of the draw as the World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, Zverev’s potential semifinal clash would likely be against the Serbian.

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“I played well, and I felt quite good on court, but I know the matches and opponents get tougher from now. I’ve got to play the same way and maybe compete even better. Some of the guys won’t let me play as well. That’s what the top guys do–they always find a way to disturb your rhythm a little bit,” said Zverev.

Playing in the first Olympic Games of his career, the 24-year-old expressed that representing his country is a special feeling, and interacting with other athletes in Germany’s contingent has been a fun experience.

Interestingly, to increase the chances of winning a medal, Zverev is also competing for the doubles title alongside partner, Jan-Lennard Struff. After winning their opening round match, the German duo would now play against the doubles teams of Gael Monfils and Jeremy Chardy in the second round.

“You’re not only playing for yourself, you’re playing for your entire country, for everybody that is watching in Germany, and the other athletes here,” said Zverev.

Up next, Zverev faces Georgia’s Nikoloz Basilashvili in the third round. Basilashvili ousted Lorenzo Sonego in a thrilling three-set match and poses a formidable challenge to Zverev.

The duo has played thrice against each other, with Zverev having a 2-1 lead in their head-to-head meetings. Who do you think would win the match?