On Saturday, Alexander Zverev made his first public appearance at the Bitpanda Hamburg Open. In good spirits, he faced the media – and later hit the Centre Court for an extended evening training session.

The hope had never fully faded – and now it’s official: Alexander Zverev is back in Hamburg. Shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday, the 28-year-old world number two arrived at the Rothenbaum venue – and just minutes later, the Hamburg native was already seated at the press conference table, relaxed, smiling, and clearly excited to be back at the Bitpanda Hamburg Open.

“It was a spontaneous decision to come to Hamburg,” Zverev told the media. “After Rome, I had a few days off to recharge. My team had several conversations with the tournament – and yesterday afternoon, the decision was made: I’m playing Hamburg.”

For Zverev, the Rothenbaum event is far more than just another stop on the packed calendar before Roland Garros. “Hamburg is my birthplace. This is where I started playing tennis, where I got my first wildcard. It’s a very special place for me – and a place where I feel a lot of positive energy. And right now, that’s exactly what I need.”

He recalled the strong connection he has with the tournament: winning his first Hamburg title in 2023 and reaching the final in 2024. With 24 career titles to his name – including the BMW Open by Bitpanda this spring – and a runner-up finish at the 2025 Australian Open, Zverev is once again one of the top contenders for the Hamburg crown.

Opening match on Monday – first practice on Centre Court

Following the press conference, Zverev headed straight to the Centre Court for a focused evening training session. His opening match is scheduled for Monday, where he will face a qualifier. “I’m here to win matches,” he said, “but also to enjoy the atmosphere. The support I get from the fans at the Rothenbaum means the world to me.”

Zverev is also soaking up the family environment around him – his brother Mischa, his parents, his children and even the family dogs are in town. “Everyone’s here – it just feels right. I can compete on court and recharge at the same time. I’m really hoping for a great week.”

Asked about balancing Hamburg and the upcoming French Open, Zverev remained pragmatic: “If I make the final here, those are exactly the emotions I want to carry with me. Two days to prepare for Paris after that – that’s enough.”