Yannick Noah Praises Alexander Zverev’s Rise to World No. 1

French tennis legend Yannick Noah has praised Alexander Zverev’s consistency and determination as the German prepares to finish the year at the top of the ATP rankings.

Noah highlighted how long Zverev had worked towards reaching the summit and how he seized his opportunity when it finally arrived.

“He has been trying to achieve this goal for such a long time. It is incredibly inspiring to watch a player who has been so close to the top for years and never gives up. Suddenly, a small opportunity opened up for him this year, and he was completely ready. He took it, and he fully deserved it,” Noah said.

The former French player added that Zverev deserved to experience what it feels like to be world No. 1, admitting that he had never reached that position himself.

Noah also revealed that the two had exchanged a few messages and that he was genuinely happy when they met in person. He said Zverev’s happiness after winning the US Open was clear to see.

“Being No. 1 is something very special, but winning the match point for the title is the greatest part, because we all play for those emotions,” Noah added.

Finishing the season as the ATP world No. 1 would be the perfect conclusion to what has already been a remarkable year for Zverev, who has won two Grand Slam titles at Roland-Garros and the US Open.