German tennis star Alexander Zverev said he used to be the third man in the world of tennis.
Despite losing to Italian Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon final yesterday (Sunday), Zverev (29) believes he was closer than ever to challenging the Italian star, currently ranked number one in the world, and his Spanish rival Carlos Alcaraz.
Both Sinner and Alcaraz, who missed out due to injury, have won the last 9 Grand Slam titles, before Zverev managed to claim his first major title in his career by winning the French Open (Roland Garros) this year.
The German player said: "This discussion has always been about who will be the third player. I have always been the third player, but I was away from these two players, I have always been in third place somehow. So if I get closer to them, that's great."
He added: "I think I have pushed both of them to perform at their best, I haven't beaten them this year, but I have pushed them to the limit... I can say that."
Zverev said after the match: "I am 29 years old, and this is the first time I believe in my ability to win this title."