Zverev grits his teeth: the admission that worries after his start in Vienna

The world No. 3 admitted he doubted until the last minute his ability to play his first round in Vienna. Physically diminished, Alexander Zverev continues his marathon season nonetheless, between ambition and recklessness.

Alexander Zverev passed the first round in Vienna yesterday by barely overcoming Jacob Fearnley (6-4, 1-6, 7-6).

The German, hampered by physical problems for several months, admitted in a press conference yesterday that he had doubts about his participation in Austria.

"Just before the warm-up, I wasn't sure if I would play. There was a lot of uncertainty; I didn't train with any players all week."

A few days ago, the world No. 3 mentioned a new shoulder problem. Yet he decided to go to Vienna, playing both singles and doubles.

In addition to defending his title in Paris next week and competing in the Masters, Zverev will also make his return to the Davis Cup to play the finals (November 18-23).

A decision that surprised many observers, as the Hamburg native regularly complains of physical issues but continues to compete in tournaments week after week.