Alexander Zverev’s Brother Reveals Key Factor That Led to Rafael Nadal’s Australian Open Triumph

How do you make a stunning comeback from an injury? Ask Rafael Nadal, who has returned on the ATP Tour with a bang. The Spaniard was sidelined for the latter half of the previous season owing to an injury. However, he made a strong comeback this year with titles at Melbourne Summer Set and the Australian Open.

Moreover, the 35-year-old created history by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash. He became the first man to lift 21 Grand Slam singles titles. Deservingly, his come-from-behind victory invited huge rounds of appreciation from the entire tennis fraternity.

The social media was abuzz with praises for the Spaniard. Recently, even Mischa Zverev, Alexander Zverev’s brother, opened up about Rafael Nadal and drew links between the two stars.

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Mischa Zverev feels Rafael Nadal sets an example for next-gen players

The elder Zverev brother felt that Alexander could not play freely at the Australian Open. He felt that his younger brother got into a stressful situation due to mounting expectations from him. Further, he cited the example of the 21-time Grand Slam champion, who was able to play freely in Melbourne after a long injury break.

He said, “With Rafa, it was the other way around. Emotionally, he was so happy that he could play at all, that his emotional happiness carried him through the tournament, although sometimes he didn’t play his best tennis.”

Additionally, he also explained the reasons behind Alexander Zverev’s disappointing Australian Open campaign. Mischa added, “He put a lot of pressure on himself. He wanted it so badly that it was his own undoing. He played outstandingly at the ATP Finals in Turin.” Notably, Alexander lost in the 4th round of the Australian Open to Denis Shapovalov in straight sets.

The World No. 3 would be eager to shrug off his inconsistency and come back stronger in the coming tournaments. He will next be seen in action at Abierto Mexicano in Acapulco, Mexico.

Do you think Alexander Zverev will win his maiden Grand Slam title this year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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