Zverev makes the decision: German tennis team celebrates opening victory at the United Cup

Even Alexander Zverev was amazed at the German tennis team’s perfect start to the United Cup. “I think it’s the first time we’ve been 2-0 up in a game,” Zverev said with a laugh, referring to the narrow successes in the last edition, in which Germany triumphed.

The clear 3-0 win against Brazil at the start of the team competition in Perth and Sydney once again awakens title hopes. After Laura Siegemund and Zverev won the two individual matches, the German team was already certain of victory.

Zverev won confidently against Thiago Monteiro 6:4, 6:4 and secured the decision even before the final mixed doubles. “I think it was a bit chaotic from the baseline. But it was the first match of the season, and that’s never the best you can play,” said the world number two: “And if you play the best tennis of your life in the If you play in the first matches of the season, then you did something wrong in your preparation.”

Siegemund was successful twice

In general, he is very happy to “play for Team Germany again,” said the 27-year-old. Especially since he really likes it in Perth. “And I enjoy my time on the pitch.”

Before Zverev, Siegemund had won against Brazil’s top player Beatriz Haddad Maia 6:3, 1:6, 6:4 and laid the foundation for the opening success. Although the 36-year-old Swabian is only ranked 80th in the world rankings. it was her fourth success in the fifth comparison over a much higher ranked South American.

“It’s the first match of the year and then against such a big player, it’s not easy,” said Siegemund. “I had to play my best game,” she added after her victory in 2:33 hours. Zverev was only on the pitch for 1:17 hours against Monteiro.

A little later, Siegemund, alongside doubles specialist Tim Pütz, made it 3-0 in the mixed doubles with a score of 7:6 (10:8), 6:4. But Siegemund complained afterwards: “I personally am not satisfied with my performance.”

At the last edition, Zverev competed in every doubles alongside Siegemund and the now retired Angelique Kerber. He still has slight problems with his elbow, and Pütz is “one of the best doubles players in the world,” said Zverev, explaining his decision not to play mixed doubles against Brazil. Pütz won the doubles competition with partner Kevin Krawietz at the ATP finals in November.

Next opponent on Monday is China

The second opponent in the preliminary round on Monday is China, who won 3-0 at the start against Brazil. The group winners will surely reach the quarter-finals, the two best group runners-up in the host cities Perth and Sydney will also advance.

For many tennis professionals, the United Cup is the start of the new season and at the same time an important preparation for the Australian Open, which begins in mid-January 2025.