After a mixed start to 2018 Alexander Zverev believes he is not far away from reaching his top level on the tour.
On Friday the world No.5 will take on Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in the final of the Miami Open. The 20-year-old has enjoyed a strong run in the first Masters 1000 tournament of the year. Recording back-to-back straight sets wins over Nick Kyrgios and Borna Coric earlier in the week.
Zverev’s surge in Key Biscayne occurs after what has been a roller coaster start to 2018. Prior to Miami, his win-loss record stood at 8-4 this season. Out of the four tournaments he played, the 20-year-old only managed to claim back-to-back wins in two tournaments. Including Acapulco, where he finished runner-up to Juan Martin del Potro. Despite the rocky start, the German is confident of returning back to his best in the near future.
“I don’t think I’m far away at all. I’m not away at all to be honest.” He said during an interview with atpworldtour.com.
“The beginning of the seasons are very tough for me because I’m someone who does a lot of physical work in the off season and I have to get used to my new body.”
“I put on about 4kg – I’m heavier than I was, stronger than I was and it influences your tennis. It just takes time.”
Despite being the clear favourite in his last four clash, Zverev is not expecting an easy encounter. Carreno Busta, who defeated Kevin Anderson in the previous round, has a 2-21 record against top 10 opponents in his career. On the other hand, he has illustrated his potential on the tour by reaching the semifinals of the US Open last year.
“It will be a very difficult match. It doesn’t get easy, but I will be ready for it.” Declared Zverev.
This week the German No.1 is bidding to win his third Masters 1000 title after Rome and Montreal last year.
