Alexander Zverev has shed some light on why he was forced to pull out of the China Open.
Alexander Zverev has revealed that he was diagnosed with pneumonia which caused him to pull out of the China Open, just days after helping Team Europe win the Laver Cup in Berlin.
The world No. 2 recently lambasted the number of matches top tennis players feel forced to play in order to achieve their goals, raising eyebrows when he pulled out of the tournament in Beijing after declaring his intentions to do all he can to overtake Jannik Sinner in top spot.
Zverev suffered two defeats at the Laver Cup but defeated Frances Tiafoe in a final set tie-breaker to help set up a 13-11 victory for Team Europe over Team World, before announcing his withdrawal and subsequent diagnosis.
Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with pneumonia, which explains the physical difficulties I’ve had in recent months,” Zverev told the German Press Agency. “I have to take care of my health first so that I can compete again as soon as possible.
“I am very disappointed to have to withdraw from the China Open. I will miss my Chinese fans in Beijing and hope to be able to play in front of them again soon.”
Alexander Zverev has recently shared the reason behind his sudden withdrawal from the China Open, revealing that he was diagnosed with pneumonia. This health condition came to light shortly after Zverev’s participation in the Laver Cup, where he helped Team Europe secure a narrow 13-11 victory over Team World in Berlin.
Zverev, who currently holds the world No. 2 ranking, was candid about the impact his illness has had on his physical performance. In an interview with the German Press Agency, he explained how pneumonia had contributed to his recent struggles on the court. “Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with pneumonia, which explains the physical difficulties I’ve had in recent months,” Zverev said. He further emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health, stating, “I have to take care of my health first so that I can compete again as soon as possible.”
The diagnosis forced Zverev to pull out of the China Open in Beijing, a move that disappointed both the player and his fans. “I am very disappointed to have to withdraw from the China Open. I will miss my Chinese fans in Beijing and hope to be able to play in front of them again soon,” he added.
Zverev’s decision to withdraw from the tournament came after a series of grueling matches at the Laver Cup. While he suffered two defeats, he managed to clinch a crucial win against Frances Tiafoe in a dramatic final-set tiebreaker. His victory played a pivotal role in securing Team Europe’s overall win in the competition. However, his performance during the event was overshadowed by the news of his subsequent illness.
The German tennis star has been vocal about the demanding nature of the tennis calendar, particularly for top-ranked players. Prior to his withdrawal, Zverev had expressed frustration over the high number of matches elite players are required to compete in throughout the season. His remarks sparked debate within the tennis community, especially as Zverev had been openly determined to overtake Jannik Sinner and claim the world No. 1 spot.
Despite his ambitions, Zverev acknowledged that his health must come first. Pneumonia is a serious respiratory condition that can have long-lasting effects, especially for professional athletes who rely heavily on their physical stamina. The illness may have contributed to his recent lack of form and could explain why he has struggled in several tournaments leading up to the China Open.
Zverev’s withdrawal from the China Open is a significant loss for the tournament, as he is one of the sport’s most prominent figures. His absence leaves a gap in the draw, and fans in China were eagerly anticipating seeing him compete. Nevertheless, Zverev remains hopeful that he will return to full strength soon and that his time away from the court will allow him to recuperate properly.
While the tennis world waits for Zverev’s return, his health battle serves as a reminder of the intense physical and mental demands placed on athletes at the top of their game. The 2024 tennis season has already seen several players dealing with injuries and illnesses, and Zverev’s situation highlights the importance of rest and recovery for long-term success.
Zverev’s fans will undoubtedly be wishing him a speedy recovery, hoping that he can return to the court in top form. The player himself seems determined to overcome this setback and continue his pursuit of tennis greatness.