World No. 2 Alexander Zverev recently addressed journalists, pushing back against the criticism he faced during a period of less-than-stellar results earlier this year.
When asked about the discussion surrounding the World No. 1 ranking and whether the dream could become an obsession, Zverev responded, “It would be great [to be No. 1]. I haven`t been there yet, but I believe I will be. We`ll see how it goes.”
He then turned to the media`s role in evaluating players. “I feel like the media loves to belittle players,” Zverev stated. “I didn`t perform well for two months before Munich; my game wasn`t there. And suddenly, I was the worst World No. 2 in history, undeserving of the spot. But I am No. 2 because I`ve won matches and tournaments.”
Zverev emphasized the objectivity of the ranking system: “The ranking doesn`t lie; you get points for winning matches and tournaments. Yes, I know I wasn`t playing at my level. I know I didn`t show what I wanted to. But Carlos [Alcaraz] wasn`t shining either, and then he won Monte-Carlo.”
“Every player`s career has such periods,” he added. “Do you think Novak [Djokovic] is happy with his results? Do you think Carlos is happy? I`m not thrilled with mine either.” Despite this, Zverev expressed confidence in his ability to perform when it matters most. “But in crucial matches, in decisive moments, I believe top players will show up. And I am confident that I will find my game at the biggest tournaments,” he concluded at the press conference.
Marcus Blakely 
Gilbert Pendleton