Alexander Zverev, the world number five, secured his second Rome Open title and is now aiming for a successful campaign at the French Open. However, Zverev recognizes the threat posed by defending champion Novak Djokovic. Zverev has had a bittersweet history with Roland Garros, including a semifinal exit in 2022 due to an ankle injury. Despite the setbacks, Zverev remains determined to achieve success at the Paris clay-court Grand Slam and is focusing all his efforts on winning the tournament this year.
The German player claimed his first title of the year at Rome, marking his first victory since the Chengdu tournament in September. The men’s Rome tournament saw a number of top names, including Djokovic, Medvedev, Sinner, and Alcaraz, either eliminated early or withdrawing from the event. Zverev acknowledges Djokovic’s capabilities and expects the defending champion to be at his best. Zverev also recognizes Sinner and Alcaraz as top players, provided they are healthy and competing at their best.
Zverev’s victory in Rome equaled Boris Becker’s record for the most Masters final appearances by a German player. The win also marked Zverev’s first title at this level since returning from his ankle injury. Zverev expressed his satisfaction with finding his rhythm ahead of Roland Garros and hopes to continue playing his best tennis at the upcoming Grand Slam event. Zverev’s dominant performance against Nicolas Jarry in the final showcased his class and form, giving him confidence heading into the French Open.
Following Zverev’s triumph in the men’s event, Italian players Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini secured the women’s doubles title by defeating Coco Gauff and Erin Routliffe. The unseeded Italian pair delighted the home crowd with their victory. Despite the absence of top Italian players like Sinner and Berrettini, Errani and Paolini’s win provided Italian tennis fans with a reason to celebrate. The duo’s victory added to the excitement and competitiveness of the Rome Open tournament.
