Defending champion Jannik Sinner says he expects a far tougher challenge from Alexander Zverev when the pair meet in Sunday's Wimbledon men's singles final.
World No. 1 Sinner is bidding to retain his Wimbledon crown and become just the 10th man in the Open era to successfully defend the title. The Italian has won his last nine meetings with Zverev, including six straight-set victories.
However, Sinner believes the German has become a different player since claiming his maiden Grand Slam title at the French Open last month.
“Whatever happened in the past between me and him is behind us,” Sinner said. “He won a Grand Slam in Paris, which has given him a lot of confidence. He is a tough player to face and is playing with much more freedom now.”
“I’ll try to do my best, but it’s going to be a very difficult match.”
Zverev heads into the final full of confidence after ending his long wait for a major title by defeating Flavio Cobolli in the French Open final.
“I stay focused, I stay hungry and I want more,” Zverev said. “Once you win a Grand Slam, you know you can do it again. That belief is now inside me.”
