Alexander Zverev has earned his stripes.
The 18-year-old German, touted as one of tennis' most talented teenagers, has signed an apparel and shoe contract with adidas.
Video: Novak Djokovic's son, Stefan, Watches Dad Play For Title
The former junior world No. 1 previously wore Nike. Zverev was wearing Nike last month when he lost his Australian Open first-round match to Andy Murray.
The world No. 85 will wear the adizero line.
Zverev grew up in a tennis family, older brother Mischa is an ATP pro.
Last summer, Alexander scored successive comeback wins over 14th-ranked Kevin Anderson and 2012 Washington, D.C. champion Alexandr Dolgopolov to become the youngest Washington, DC quarterfinalist since a 17-year-old Andy Roddick made the last eight in 2000.
Zverev says critical moments are when the fun starts.
"Tennis starts for me at the moment when it's five-all or six-all," Zverev said in this video produced by his racquet sponsor, Head. "In the important moment, that's where the fun always begins. I really enjoy those moments and being the best player you can be in those moments."
Photo credit: Mark Peterson/Corleve