In an exhausting three-set victory over Hubert Hurkacz, Alexander Zverev saved two match points, helping Germany shock top-seeded Poland and capture their first-ever United Cup title in Sydney on Sunday, January 7.
With a never-say-die 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 triumph, the world number seven maintained the tie after top-ranked Iga Swiatek easily defeated Angelique Kerber 6-3, 6-0.
Alexander Zverev wins over Swiatek
In the decisive mixed doubles match, Zverev defeated Swiatek and Hurkacz 6-4, 5-7, 10-4 to secure the title with his return to partner Laura Siegemund.
Zverev declared during the presentation ceremony that “it was a matter of millimeters today for you guys (Poland) to be the champions.”
For my crew, it’s been incredible and a lot of fun. I am quite happy.”
Since the German player’s eventual victory in the 2021 ATP Finals, Hurkacz and Alexander Zverev have not faced each other.
Hurkacz, who is 26 years old and a powerful server, prevailed in the opening set tiebreak despite the close margins that separated them in the singles match.
In the second set, which ended in a tie at six-all, the Pole saved two set points from Alexander Zverev.
However, he crumbled in the tiebreak and wasted two championship points this time around as Alexander Zverev, who was tired, forced a deciding set.
Hurkacz’s game was beginning to show signs of error, as Zverev broke for a 4-3 lead in the third and overcame a cramping spell to win.
Alexander Zverev stated, “I was exhausted,” because the German semi-final didn’t end until 2.18 a.m. on Sunday.
“In the middle of the second set, I was already exhausted, and in the third set, I was hanging on a lot of the time and somehow got the break,” he stated.
“It was challenging mentally and physically because playing three days in a row of singles and mixed is tough.”
