The Erste Bank Open 2021 is history. The winner is called Alexander Zverev. The Olympic champion from Germany (24) triumphed in the final against the surprise man from the USA after 1:35 hours with 7: 5.6: 4. This makes Zverev the first German Vienna winner since Tommy Haas 2013 and has already won the 18th title of his career, the fifth in his season.
After tournament director Herwig Straka raved about a particularly great week, there were also Zverev and Tiafoe did not follow suit. “That was one of the nicest weeks of the year for me. I hope it won’t be the last time and I’ll be back next year, ”said Zverev at the award ceremony also in the direction of Straka.
His words to the audience were also very emotional and personable, which in times of the coronavirus pandemic created a great atmosphere thanks to the 2G concept. “I have said it many times that the sport missed spectators. It was incredibly special to see thousands of people again. You showed us how nice it can be to play in front of full stadiums. I am overjoyed that I can lift this trophy right away, see you next year! “
Zverev, who has long been qualified for the ATP Finals, can look forward to 500 counters for the ATP ranking and a winner’s check for 275,074 euros. Tiafoe left 300 points and 162,000 euros as a fee. The 23-year-old American will improve from 49th to 41st place, Zverev remains fourth. Posed head-to-head with Tiafoe Zverev now by the way already at 6: 1.
For Tiafoe it was “the best week of my life”. “Man, am I tired. Thanks to you fans, you stood behind me like crazy, it’s very emotional for me. ” Tiafoe, who was also very popular with Zverev, whom he has known and kept for over ten years, has gained a lot of self-confidence in Vienna. “I can’t wait to see what’s in store for me in 2022.”
Before that, Tiafoe, who had knocked out Lucas Miedler 6: 7 (5), 6: 4.6: 3 until the final after his qualification run, had used his last strength. Again he tried to energetically seize the momentum by strongly involving the audience, but it was for it Zverev ultimately too hard-boiled.
A break to 7: 5 in the first set and one to 6: 4 in the second meant the win for the Hamburger. Zverev then said in the direction of his opponent that he expected this “if you hold your shit together” soon in the top ten. “Tennis needs you!”
He also thanked his new girlfriend, the actress Sophia Thomalla Zverev. “Thank you for being by my side since lately. I hope this won’t be the last time we’ll touch a trophy together. You have to put up with me on the tour for another ten years. “
