Arthur Rinderknech’s Wimbledon Upset: Key to Victory Over Zverev

Arthur Rinderknech achieved a significant milestone in his career by defeating world No. 3 Alexander Zverev in the first round of Wimbledon 2025. The No. 72 ranked Rinderknech won the match 7-6(3), 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-4 in a contest that stretched over two days due to Wimbledon’s curfew. Rinderknech’s powerful serve and aggressive baseline game proved vital in securing the victory.

Rinderknech’s Winning Strategy

Rinderknech himself expressed joy and disbelief after the win, calling it “emotional” and “difficult”. Several factors contributed to Rinderknech’s stunning upset:

• Aggressive Net Play: Rinderknech approached the net effectively, winning 44 of 55 net points.
• Powerful Serving: Rinderknech’s serve, particularly effective on grass, helped him out of difficult situations. He didn’t lose his serve throughout the entire match.
• Baseline Game: Rinderknech outlasted Zverev in baseline rallies.
• Composure: Despite a few tight moments, Rinderknech held his nerve to secure the win. He secured the victory on his third match point with a backhand winner.

Key Moments in the Match

The match was filled with drama and momentum shifts:

• Suspension: The match was suspended at one set all on Monday night due to Wimbledon’s curfew.
• Resumption: When play resumed on Tuesday, Rinderknech came out strong, winning the third set.
• Fourth Set Tie-break: Rinderknech recovered from squandering a 5/3 lead in the fourth-set tie-break.
• Fifth Set: Rinderknech broke early in the deciding set and maintained his lead.

Zverev’s Perspective on the Loss

Zverev acknowledged Rinderknech’s strong performance. However, he also spoke candidly about his own struggles:

• Lack of Joy: Zverev admitted to feeling “empty” and lacking joy both on and off the court.
• Mental Struggles: He expressed feeling alone and struggling mentally, even considering working with a mental coach.
• Passivity: Zverev’s passivity allowed Rinderknech to take control of the match.

Zverev’s Recent Form

The defeat extends Zverev’s run of inconsistent form since losing to Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open final. While he has achieved some decent results, he has struggled to build momentum.

Implications of the Upset

Rinderknech’s victory has significant implications for both players and the tournament:

• Rinderknech’s Breakthrough: The win marks a breakthrough moment for Rinderknech, giving him confidence for a potential deep run at Wimbledon.
• Zverev’s Setback: Zverev’s wait for a first major title continues, and the loss raises questions about his mental state.
• Tournament Impact: The upset opens up Zverev’s section of the draw, creating opportunities for other players. Twelve men’s seeds of 32 have exited Wimbledon in the first round this year.

Rinderknech’s Road Ahead

Rinderknech is set to face Cristian Garin in the second round. His confidence and form suggest he is capable of challenging any player.