Tennis legend Boris Becker has publicly expressed his strong conviction that German star Alexander Zverev will ultimately secure a Grand Slam title, despite Zverev’s current struggles to convert major final appearances into victories. Becker views Zverev as a “sporting adopted son” and remains optimistic about his potential to reach the sport’s pinnacle.
A Close Bond and Honest Assessment
Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion himself, has consistently shown a keen interest in Zverev’s career, often offering candid assessments of his compatriot’s progress. Their relationship is described as close, with Becker emphasizing a “private sphere” between them. Despite this bond, Becker has not shied away from offering constructive criticism, particularly regarding Zverev’s coaching setup.
Following Zverev’s quarterfinal exit at the French Open to Novak Djokovic, Becker suggested that “a critical analysis” was necessary within Zverev’s team. He recommended that Zverev consider new voices in his coaching staff, likening it to football where coaches rarely stay with a club for a decade. Becker specifically mentioned Rafael Nadal’s successful move to incorporate Carlos Moya and Francisco Roig after parting ways with his uncle Toni Nadal, suggesting a similar path for Zverev.
Zverev’s Grand Slam Journey So Far
Alexander Zverev, currently ranked world No. 3, has had an illustrious career with 24 ATP Tour singles titles, including two ATP Finals victories in 2018 and 2021, and a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. However, a Grand Slam singles title has eluded him, despite reaching three major finals.
His Grand Slam final appearances include:
- 2020 US Open: Lost to Dominic Thiem in five sets after being two sets up.
- 2024 French Open: Lost to Carlos Alcaraz in five sets.
- 2025 Australian Open: Lost to Jannik Sinner in the final.
Zverev has openly admitted the pain of not yet winning a Grand Slam, stating he doesn’t want to be remembered as one of the best players who never managed to win a major.
Recent Form and Mental State
Zverev’s form in 2025 has been mixed. He reached the final of the Australian Open but has since struggled with consistency, experiencing early exits in tournaments like Indian Wells. After a surprising first-round loss at Wimbledon, Zverev revealed he felt “empty” and lacked joy, not just in tennis but outside of it as well. He also hinted at a need for changes to his team and even considered working with a mental coach for the first time.
Potential Coaching Changes and Becker’s Outlook
Recent reports indicate Zverev has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca with Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s renowned uncle and former coach. Becker has reacted positively to this potential partnership, stating, “If Toni Nadal is indeed Sascha Zverev’s new coach, then he’s got it all. I find this combination very interesting. I hope it happens.” He further emphasized that Zverev should “keep his mouth shut and just listen” when receiving advice from the Nadal family.
Despite Zverev’s past reluctance to fully embrace external coaching voices beyond his family, Becker remains convinced that Zverev has the talent and potential to win a Grand Slam and even become world No. 1, provided he “sets the right course.” Becker believes that a “one percent” change, likely referring to a strategic coaching adjustment, could be the key to Zverev finally breaking his Grand Slam drought.
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