Alexander Zverev says he is not taking things for granted after securing another semifinal berth in Miami Masters.
Injuries hit the German hard in 2022 and 2023 but in Thrusday’s quarterfinal tie, he emphatically beat Fabian Marozsan of Hungary to reach the final four of the event. Marozsan was eying a third top ten win of the week but couldn’t seize the opportunity.
“I’m happy to be back in these late stages of these tournaments, playing the best players in the world, I think there are only those left,” Zverev said. “Looking forward to the challenge.”
Zverev feels that it is only a matter of time before Marozsan cracks into the top 20 slot. The World No. 5 was impressed with the Hungarian’s ability to not bow down quick against the top guys on the tour. Marozsan maintains a 4-2 record against top 10 players and the 21-time tour-level titlist feels it is very clear why he troubles the best in the business.
“If he keeps playing like that, he’s going to rise up the rankings very quickly,” Zverev said.
“He always rushes [you]… I think when all top players feel like they are in control, they feel like they manage the match and play the match a little bit in their own favor and against him, it’s not possible. That’s why he has such a great Top 10 record. He’s an unbelievable player.”
Zverev has admitted that his injury woes have proved to be an impediment in the growth of his career. He feels there is no doubt that he would be further ahead than he is at the moment if it were not for the devastating ankle roll he took at Roland Garros in 2022.
“Obviously a lot, especially after the injury, I think it did hold me back in a way,” said the 26-year-old about his time away from the sport.
“You know, I was kind of on top of my game before the injury happened, you know. I was at my best level so far in my career.
“I’m obviously extremely happy to be back where I am and winning these kind of matches, and, you know, giving myself the chance again. Because last year, for the first part of the season, or actually throughout the year, I wasn’t a slam contender. I wasn’t a contender to win tournaments like that.
“If I am now, I’m very happy about that.”
Zverev a 1-time Grand Slam finalist at US Open, will be rooting for his 6th ATP Masters 1000 crown and first since 2021 Cincinnati and in his way are standing either Carlos Alcaraz or Grigor Dimitrov.