STUTTGART, Germany—The summer atmosphere is finally in full swing at the first stop of the German grass-court season: the BOSS OPEN. After constant rain and wind made for unpleasant conditions during the qualification weekend, Monday brought sunshine and smiles as spectators swapped umbrellas and raincoats for sunglasses and t-shirts.
Zverev receives a fitting welcome
The weather wasn’t the only thing to excite the spectators on Monday. When Germany’s number one Alexander Zverev arrived at the Weissenhof in the afternoon, it was impossible to see the 6’6″ star, such was the throng of fans around him as he walked from his car to the clubhouse. Dozens of children, equipped with XXL tennis balls and pens, shouted his name, hoping to get close to the world No. 3 for an autograph. After Zverev disappeared into the clubhouse, the fans remained hopeful outside the door, waiting for their star to emerge.
Zverev’s fans in Germany are countless and committed, even after his quarterfinal exit at Roland Garros. Although the Hamburg native is still disappointed about the result—and has also faced a lot of criticism from former pros, including Boris Becker and Barbara Rittner—Stuttgart continues to celebrate the 28-year-old.
“The last time I was here was six years ago. The facility is still beautiful. I think the fans are also really looking forward to it. Hopefully it will be a great week,” said Zverev ahead of his first training session.
