New Italian Open champion Alexander Zverev referenced Jannik Sinner during his celebratory speech in Rome, after defeating Nicolas Jarry in Sunday’s final. The German won 6-4, 7-5 to claim his second title in Italy, before immediately mentioning the home favourite Sinner.
After getting past first-time
Zverev dropped just one set throughout his entire Rome campaign in a stellar show of consistency before he heads to Roland Garros, as the third seed picked up his second title in Rome after his 2017 victory before taking a jab at one of his rivals.
Masters 1000 finalist Jarry, Zverev moved to world No. 4 in the rankings in a major boost for his French Open draw hopes, showing superb athleticism especially to down his Chilean opponent after an hour and 41 minutes.
“Buongiorno everyone, my name is Jannik,” Zverev said with a big smile on his face as he celebrated victory on the turf that Sinner would have been desperate to achieve glory on.
“Obviously winning my first ever (Masters) here in Rome and winning my first after my injury also in Rome, so Rome is a very special place for me,” Zverev added. “It is a very, very special week.”
He also tipped the big-hitting Jarry for big things in the future: “He is playing huge and you can see by the players he has beaten here this week. Playing incredible tennis. I told him if he continues to play like that he will have many chances at this level. Today I am extremely happy to be the winner.”
