Jacob Fearnley shares what Alex Zverev told him at net as he wants German to win Aus Open

Jacob Fearnley called his first Australian Open “awesome” as he backed to finally win a Grand Slam.

The British No.3, who only left college last June, went down 6-3 6-4 6-4 to the world No.2. But the Scot broke the German’s serve for the first time this tournament and was praised for his aggressive approach.

“I think my opponent did a great job today – I think he is an incredible player,” said two-time Grand Slam runner-up. “Massive respect to him. I think he is going to get better in the next few years.”

Fearnley, who needed medical treatment for a little tweak in my back said: “He was very nice at the end. He said: ‘Great playing and good luck’. So it was really nice.

“It was cool to hear. Of course I want him to win now! You always want the person that beat you to win it.”

Fearnley beat Nick Kyrgios the first round and is now set to climb into the world’s top 80 after his first overseas Grand Slam. “It’s been awesome,” said the Edinburgh star. “Obviously an extremely, extremely good week for me. An unbelievable tournament.

“It’s a big kind of confidence boost. I kind of feel like knowing that I can compete against some of the best players in the world, it’s really cool to see. I’m looking forward to coming back in the future.”

The next stop on Fearnley’s rapid rise is his Davis Cup debut in Japan on Friday January 31. “It’s a dream come true,” he added. “I think every tennis player wants to represent their country. I’ve never been to Japan. I’ll probably stay around here and just train a little bit before I go.”

After overcoming Kyrgios in the opening round at Melbourne Park, Fearnley then beat Frenchman Arthur Cazaux in four sets on Wednesday.

It has been a very memorable tournament for the Scot, and one he will never forget as he now looks to continue his ascent in men’s tennis.