Alexander Zverev is not just battling his opponents at Wimbledon but also a nasty grass allergy. The pristine greens are wreaking havoc with the No.2 seed's sinuses as he targets back-to-back Grand Slam titles.
Zverev's Grass Allergy Revealed
Zverev, 27, revealed his allergy to grass in the build-up to this year's Championships. After sneezing, he told reporters: "I feel super. It is just a problem that we play on grass and I have a grass allergy. I have it every year."
Despite the discomfort, Zverev downplayed the impact on his performance. "I have a bit of a stuffed nose. Again, I will not die from it. It doesn't affect me playing. I'm fine," he said.
Improved Form at SW19
Zverev has historically struggled in the early rounds at Wimbledon, often enduring five-set battles. Last year, he suffered a shock five-set loss to Arthur Rinderknech in the opening round. However, this year is different. The German is full of confidence after winning his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros in May.
He beat Alexander Blockx in four sets on Tuesday and then Valentin Royer in straight sets on Thursday to ease into the third round.
"Yeah, I think generally speaking you can't compare the two years. Last year I was struggling a lot tennis-wise. Also, I was not playing really well. This year I'm coming in as Roland Garros champion. I think the mindset is just very different, playing-wise very different. Of course I hope to continue my good form," Zverev said.
Draw Opens Up for Zverev
With Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner in the other half of the draw, the path has opened up for Zverev at Wimbledon. So long as he can keep his allergies in check, he stands a strong chance of adding a second consecutive Grand Slam title to his resume.
