Tennis star Alexander Zverev seeks guidance from a renowned tennis veteran
Alexander Zverev, the third-ranked tennis player in the world, has made a significant move in his career by teaming up with Toni Nadal, the uncle and former coach of 22-time Grand Slam tournament winner Rafael Nadal, as his new coach. This change comes after a disappointing run at Wimbledon 2025, where Zverev was eliminated in the first round and admitted to going through a tough mental phase.
The collaboration between Zverev and the Nadal family is seen as a fresh start for the German player, who aims to bounce back during the North American hardcourt season. While Toni Nadal will take on a coaching role, Rafael Nadal is expected to provide mentorship, marking a shift from direct coaching.
The partnership is still in its early stages, with Toni Nadal actively coaching Zverev and Rafa Nadal offering guidance. It remains unclear if Zverev will continue working with his father alongside Toni Nadal or if Toni will fully replace him.
Boris Becker, a tennis legend, previously advised Zverev to change his surroundings, but it is unclear if this advice was heeded. Becker has criticised Zverev's strategy, suggesting that there is room for improvement. However, Zverev has responded defensively, saying that if things go well, he does everything right, but if things go badly, everyone is quick to offer criticism, with Becker being part of that.
Zverev's management has not yet made a statement regarding these reports. The tennis star is currently training at the Rafa Nadal Academy on Mallorca, a change from his previous coaches, which have included Juan Carlos Ferrero, Ivan Lendl, David Ferrer, and Sergi Bruguera.
Interestingly, all of Zverev's previous coaches have left their positions with him after half a year or three-quarters of a year. This move to Toni Nadal could mark a more stable coaching arrangement for the German player.
Zverev's withdrawal from the ATP tournament in Gstaad has further fuelled speculation about the changes in his career. He hopes to provide further answers about these changes at the Masters 1000 tournament in Toronto, Canada, at the end of July.
Nadal, considered the greatest player in history on clay, the surface on which Zverev also has the greatest hopes for his first Grand Slam triumph, is expected to play a significant role in Zverev's journey towards tennis success. Whether this partnership will lead to Zverev's long-awaited Grand Slam victory remains to be seen.
Despite the fresh start with Toni Nadal, Alexander Zverev finds himself struggling, admitting, "I'm not going to be able to do this" as he contemplates his upcoming sports challenges in tennis, particularly aiming for his first Grand Slam victory on clay, a surface where Nadal has been considered the greatest. Rafeal Nadal is expected to offer mentorship to Zverev, marking a shift from direct coaching by Toni Nadal.
