‘Most Awkward I’ve Felt’: Alexander Zverev Reacts to His Sleeveless Attire at Australian Open 2021

Alexander Zverev put up a sublime performance to get past Adrian Mannarino to move into the 4th round at the Australian Open 2021. The German was clinical with his game and defeated the Frenchman in straight sets to carry on in his pursuit of glory. 

However, one major difference has been noticed as far as Zverev’s demeanour is concerned, and that is his attire. He’s been the center of attention for choosing to show his biceps at the opening Slam of the season, and some like it, and others don’t. 

Zverev was asked about it after his 3rd-round victory, but the German didn’t have much to say about his fashion choice for this year. Zverev is 6’6″ and holds a reputation for being one of the leaner players on the tour, hence, fans are questioning his decision to opt for the sleeveless tee.

“The sleeveless looks make it makes it look okay, I guess. This is the most awkward I felt on court, by the way,” Zverev expressed in his on-court interview. 

One explanation from Alexander Zverev might be that the Australian Open conditions are different from the usual. Instead of an early summer start in January, the tournament’s now running through Feb, and the temperature tends to get warmer during this time. 

Laziness pushed Alexander Zverev to dispatch Adrian Mannarino sooner than expected

Mannarino is a tough competitor, and he had every chance of winning against Zverev on Friday. However, the 2020 US Open finalist allowed very little room for his opponent to dominate. This victory also stretched Zverev’s unbeaten streak against Mannarino to 5-0.  

“I mean very happy I mean Adrian is someone that I played three times last year and every single time it was a very very long match and very difficult match today,” Zverev said after his straight-set win. 

However, it is surprising that laziness is what propelled Alexander Zverev to showcase a flawless performance at the Rod Laver Arena. An added factor was his sympathy towards the fans for coming out in the scorching heat to watch the match. 

“I felt a bit lazy so I thought maybe I’ll hit the ball a little bit harder so we don’t have to play for 4 hours and you guys don’t have to sit in the sun. So, all good. So, yeah, I’m happy,” Zverev added. 

Alexander Zverev has progressed to the 4th round at the Australian Open for just the third time in his career. The German will face either Dusan Lajovic or Pedro Martinez in his next match. 

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