“After I Beat Rafael Nadal, You Don’t Talk to Me”: Alexander Zverev Pokes Fun at Feliciano Lopez

After defeating Kei Nishikori, Dan Evans, Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, and Matteo Berrettini, Alexander Zverev won his 4th Masters 1000 title at Mutua Madrid Open 2021. In his gracious winning speech, the 23-year-old German did not miss out on thanking anybody.

The night had not begun as it ended for Zverev. He was behind one set but kept his level high and came through 7-6 (8), 4-6, 3-6.

Read More: IMPRESSIVE! Alexander Zverev Battles Past Matteo Berrettini to Pull off His 4th Masters 1000 Title at Mutua Madrid Open 2021

Alexander Zverev congratulates Matteo Berrettini, in his Madrid winning speech

Naturally, Alexander Zverev did not know where to start as his turn came at the mic. But as a true sportsman, he began by congratulating his incredible opponent, Italian World No.10 Matteo Berrettini.

“First of all, I want to congratulate Matteo. Amazing week. As I just said, I think you deserve to win this title as much as I did. I know this moment is not the greatest; I have been there, trust me.” Zverev added, “I have felt 100 times worse at the US Open final.”

In addition, the 23-year-old assured Matteo that he would feel better once he wins a big title. Also, Zverev mentioned that he is looking forward to watching him next week at the Italian Open.

Furthermore, the German thanked Team Matteo and his team for doing everything they can. “Every tennis player knows that without a team, it is not possible to perform at the highest level,” Sascha said.

Zverev also expressed gratitude towards the Spanish Government, the organizers, the tournament owner Ion Tiriac, and tournament director Feliciano Lopez. Interestingly enough, he joked with Lopez for not talking to him after he beat his friend, countryman, and five-time Madrid champion, Rafael Nadal.

“Thank you Feli. For some reason, after I beat Rafa, you don’t talk to me one more word, I don’t know why,” Zverev laughed. “I think maybe this will change after the final. I think both of you are doing an incredible job.”

Read More: “You Never Give Up”: Golfing Legend Hails Rafael Nadal for Laureus Award

Zverev elated to give winning speeches in front of the crowd

Last year, many tournaments, such as the Mutua Madrid Open, got canceled due to the pandemic outbreak. Moreover, after the resumption, fans were not allowed in the stadium for a long time.

But now, Zverev felt happy to finally give a speech in front of people instead of empty chairs.  “It sucks giving speeches when nobody is in the stands,” he said.

Summing up, the German hoped for more crowd by next year so they celebrate tennis the way it should be. The ATP Tour will now move on to the fourth Masters 1000 event of 2021, the Italian Open, starting 10th of May. Let us see what Rome has to add to a reverberating season of tennis.

Also Read: Why Italian Open Is a Better Preparation Tournament Than Madrid Open