Alexander Zverev gives deep insights into his inner life in a podcast interview. Looking back, the tennis star sees a big mistake.
Professional tennis player Alexander Zverev spoke openly about mental challenges in the current season in a podcast interview.
In an interview with “Nothing Major,” the world number three described his problems. “I had a minor burnout for months. I wasn’t very motivated to play. I didn’t really feel like training,” said the 27-year-old.
He said he made the wrong decisions, especially after losing to Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open final.
“That was a mistake.”
Instead of taking a break and processing his disappointment, Zverev traveled to a tournament in Argentina just a few days later.
“That was a mistake. I paid the price for it,” said the Olympic champion, who was eliminated before the semi-finals in the subsequent events in South America and Mexico.
Zverev now says he feels much more mentally stable.
Zverev wants to attack at the US Open
Although he does not yet consider himself to be in top form, the German is optimistic about the next Grand Slam tournament.
“Maybe I won’t play my best tennis in Canada or Cincinnati. But when the US Open starts, I’ll be a title contender again.” The tournament in New York begins on August 24.
Important tips from Nadal
Zverev continues to hope for support from tennis legend Rafael Nadal and his uncle Toni.
After his early exit from Wimbledon, the Hamburg native spent several days training at the Nadal Academy in Mallorca.
Toni Nadal made it clear to him that he could only win a Grand Slam with a more courageous playing style. “I know that, but it’s different hearing it from him,” said Zverev.
Zverev breaks special mark
Zverev is currently playing in Toronto, where the German also secured his 500th victory in an ATP tournament.
In the round of 16 on Saturday night, he will face Argentine Francisco Cerundolo, an opponent he has struggled against in recent matches.
