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Alexander Zverev has helped Team Europe secure a sixth Laver Cup title after defeating American teenager Learner Tien on the final day of the competition in London. Zverev overcame a difficult second day, when he was beaten by Team World’s Alex de Minaur, to deliver a decisive 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 victory over Tien at The O2 Arena.
Zverev leads Europe to Laver Cup Victory
Alexander Zverev has helped Team Europe secure a sixth Laver Cup title after defeating American teenager Learner Tien on the final day of the competition in London.
Zverev overcame a difficult second day, when he was beaten by Team World's Alex de Minaur, to deliver a decisive 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 victory over Tien at The O2 Arena.
The German world number two held his nerve during a closely contested opening set before taking control in the second to seal the match in one hour and 49 minutes.
The victory came after Carlos Alcaraz kept Europe's hopes alive following Zverev's earlier defeat. Flavio Cobolli and Jakub Mensik then defeated De Minaur and Taylor Fritz in the doubles, giving Europe the points it needed to move within reach of the title.
Zverev's victory took Team Europe to the required 13 points, meaning Alcaraz was not required to return to the court.
"It was a great feeling to get the win today," Zverev said. "I haven't won a Laver Cup match in two years, so I'm happy I did it today."
He also praised Team World's performance and highlighted the importance of the team atmosphere during an event that brings together some of the sport's leading players.
"Massive credit to the entire Team World. They pushed us all the way again, they were champions last year," Zverev said.
"We have a great team chemistry, it was a team effort. Winning as a team, there's no better feeling in sports. We don't have enough of it in tennis."
Tien, 20, was making his debut for Team World and produced a composed performance in the opening set, forcing Zverev into a tiebreak.
However, Zverev prevailed in the tiebreak before breaking clear in the second set to complete the victory.
The result further strengthened Zverev's record at the Laver Cup. He has featured in all six of Team Europe's victories and now holds the competition's record for most singles wins, with eight.
Team Europe's latest triumph continues its dominance in the event, while Zverev once again played a key role in delivering the title.
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