Alexander Zverev called Roger Federer old when analysing how the 2020 season could pan out. However, the German was quick to backtrack on his comments with the Swiss star sat right beside him.
Federer and Zverev competed in an exhibition clash in China this weekend and they lost a doubles tie against the Bryan brothers, Mike and Bob.
The pair then played a singles clash with one another in which 20-time Grand Slam winner came out on top.
During a press conference in Hangzhou Zverev was asked if he feels ready to win a Grand Slam title next season given he has never been past the quarter-final stage.
“Maybe there will be a new Slam champion, maybe the old guys will continue to win them all next year,” Zverev said in reference to Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic’s dominance.
However, he quickly remembered one of those legends was sat right next to him.
“I don’t mean to say you’re old, I’m sorry,” Zverev told the 38-year-old.
Federer and Zverev’s relationship has blossomed over recent months as they toured South America together at the end of the season.
And the quip was taken very well as Federer agreed with Zverev’s claim about the old guard.
“I am, I am,” Federer chuckled as he laughed off the incident.
Zverev continued to explain how motivated he is to do well at the major events where he usually flops.
“I feel that things are different for me than last year, I think I am 100 per cent focused on tennis,” he added.
“I know it is very important to do well in big tournaments, but I still feel I have done well so far, with the exception of the Slams.
“I have won several Masters 1000, I have won the [ATP] Finals. This year, something changed between Beijing and Hangzhou and I started playing my best tennis.”
While competing in Asia Federer has been named GQ’s Most Stylish Man of the Decade.
“Maybe Sascha may one day become the most elegant man of the year, but I have already become the most elegant man of the decade,” Federer joked.
“I think tennis leaves a great legacy in terms of style. I try to have my personal style, classic and modern at the same time.
“I have to thank all the fans and especially Sascha, who said she voted for me every day.”
