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HAMBURG. Zverev surprised he was dumped by Lendl

Sascha Zverev said he didn't expect this statement from Ivan

27 July 2019

Sascha Zverev is really having an interesting year, to say the least. After ending last season in the best possible way, the German was struggling big time in 2019, especially because he was dealing with some off-court issues.

However, the German is slowing finding his way back, and he is now in the semifinal in Hamburg after surviving Krajinovic when he was 2-6 2-5 down in the quarters.

Zverev vs. Lendl

Sascha blasted Lendl during a press conference in Hamburg where he questioned his work ethic stating that the former world no.1 at times looked more interesting in talking about golf than coaching him. Zverev also said that he “scolded” him asking to focus more.

Giving that statement in public was a clear “act of war” and eventually Lendl did the only plausible thing: he dumped Zverev with a stern communicate.

This was Ivan’s statement:

“I have a lot of belief in Sascha, who is still very young. I think that one day he may become a great player but currently, he has some off-court issues that make it difficult to work in a way that is consistent with my philosophy.”

Why Zverev was surprised

Sascha surprised again for saying he didn’t expect the abrupt split during the tournament to comment:

“We had no contact, it was a bit surprising that he made it during the competition and I learned it through the media, which was a bit strange for me, but I have nothing but respect for him London great 10 months

It felt like we were both going in different directions, we did not have a date after the tournament, but we knew what to talk about, just wish him the best, have the best coach in the world, I’m very happy – for now (laughs).

Ivan was great to everyone in the team, there’s nothing to complain about, I want to go back to my old way, have family and dad around me, have that feeling again, that’s something Ivan noticed, but that does not mean that I do not like him ”