Last week, World Number seven Alexander Zverev was halted in the fourth round of French Open 2020 by 19-year-old Jannik Sinner. Post this unexpected exit from the Parisian Grand Slam, ‘Sascha’ stated health-wise he was not at his 100 percent as he was suffering from cold and weakness.

This week, the German ace Zverev has decided to play on his home turf in Cologne, Germany. During the pre-match presser, he reflected on the dramatic fifth set that he played during the US Open 2020 finals against Dominic Thiem.

It was one of the most important deciding sets in Sascha’s career, and its conclusion left him in shambles. It’s been almost four weeks now, but Zverev still regrets dropping the most precious set of his career, which cost him a Major title. He was 5-3 up in the fifth and was serving for his first Grand Slam crown. With Sascha committing a few unforced errors, Thiem made his Slam breakthrough with a 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) victory.

“Every day 20-25 times. In the nights, too. And in my dreams, too. I think that says it all, no?” Zverev replied when asked how many times a day does he think about the US Open final.

Alexander Zverev provides fans a health update

In Germany, he is physically in perfect shape to play and has recovered from his fitness issues in Paris. “Was a normal cold. This happens also during a pandemic. People misunderstood that a bit.” All tests negative. Says physically in top shape. “For me season just begun,” said Sascha.

He also shared his thoughts on Rafael Nadal’s unprecedented achievement on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

“I said to Mischa, 15 years ago nobody thought someone could break Sampras 14 slams. Rafa can achieve that in Paris alone – is on another level there. It’s different to lose 7 games vs Novak. Rafa is the best player in the world, especially on clay. What do you guess?”

At ATP Cologne, Alexander Zverev will open his campaign against Fernando Verdasco, who defeated Andy Murray in the opening round match.