Alexander Zverev pleased with his 2024 season and relieved to answer 'question marks'

World number two Alexander Zverev expressed his excitement regarding the level of tennis he has exhibited this year, believing that his performances have alleviated any concerns regarding his capabilities following a significant ankle injury in 2022.

After suffering ligament damage to his ankle during the 2022 French Open, Zverev spent a considerable amount of time away from the sport. However, he has reclaimed his career-high ranking of number two in the world following his triumph at the Paris Masters earlier this month.

The German player also secured a Masters 1000 title at the Italian Open in May and reached the final at the French Open.

"In 2023, I felt distant from being competitive in major tournaments; I was far from winning them," Zverev stated to ATP Media in anticipation of the season-ending ATP Finals.

"Being able to compete and reach Grand Slam finals, as well as win Masters 1000 events, brings me great satisfaction, especially considering the uncertainties surrounding my ability to achieve this again after the injury.

"This year marked the first time I felt competitive in significant events again. I am pleased with my current standing."

The ATP Finals, a week-long event featuring the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world, will take place at the Inalpi Arena in Turin starting Sunday.

Zverev will commence his pursuit of a third title on Monday, facing world number nine Andrey Rublev, followed by matches against four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz and Norwegian Casper Ruud.

"Competing against one of the top eight players in the world right from the start is quite challenging. It requires focus and readiness from the outset. I am eager for this week," Zverev remarked.

He described Rublev as a "powerful, extremely fast player," noting, "He aims to overpower you. The key to success against him is to prevent that."