Former world No.1 John McEnroe believes Angelique Kerber’s recent triumph at the Wimbledon Championships could help inspire a new generation of German tennis players.
At the All England Club Kerber defeated Serena Williams to win her first major title since 2016 and her third overall. The world No.4 has experienced a roller coaster journey on the tour within the last 12 months. During 2017 she won back-to-back matches only once between August and November. Resulting in her falling out of the world’s top 20. Nevertheless, Kerber managed to stage a resurgence this year with the help of coach Wim Fissette. Who joined her team last November.
“Her victory in the final against Serena Williams was really remarkable, maybe a few more young people in Germany now want to become good tennis players,” McEnroe commented about Kerber’s latest victory.
McEnroe spoke about Kerber during an interview at the Am Rothenbaum. Venue of this week’s German Open. On Sunday the American took part in a special match against Michael Stich, who was recently inducted into tennis’ Hall of Fame in Newport. Stich is stepping down as tournament director of the German Open after this year.
Legends never die – what a crazy weekend for #Hamburg's #Tennis legend Michael Stich! Inducted to the @TennisHalloFame and then his final match as part of the #German Tennis Open @Am_Rothenbaum against John McEnroe which he won in the match tie break! Congrats! 🎾🏆 pic.twitter.com/iDLAsaazA5
— Hamburg on Tour ✈️ (@hamburgontour) July 23, 2018
The 59-year-old has also back Alexander Zverev to emulate Kerber and win a grand slam title in the future. Zverev already has eight ATP titles to his name, including three at Masters 1000 level. On the other hand, he is yet to get his breakthrough in the majors with his best run being to the quarter-finals of this year’s French Open.
“He has the opportunities to win a Grand Slam tournament, but when will be, I cannot say.” Concluded McEnroe.
Speaking specifically about what the 21-year-old needs to do in the future, McEnroe believes the problem currently lies in the early rounds of grand slams. At Roland Garros, he played three consecutive five-set matches.
Zverev is set to return to action next week at the Washington Open. Meanwhile, Kerber’s next tournament is will not be until next month at the Rogers Cup in Canada.
