Alexander Zverev has fired back at Boris Becker following a series of critical remarks made by the six-time Grand Slam champion. In a recent interview with Bild am Sonntag, Zverev addressed Becker’s comments, which included labeling him a “problem child” and questioning his reluctance to make changes within his team. “I think he’s relatively unconcerned about me, to be honest. I think he’s looking for a bit of attention and he gets it through me,” Zverev said. “Unfortunately that’s the case. But I don’t care anymore.”
Becker’s criticism came during a podcast co-hosted with former player Andrea Petkovic, where he expressed frustration with Zverev’s performances and suggested a lack of progress in his professional setup. “World class looks different,” Becker remarked, adding that Zverev’s stagnation was partly due to his unwillingness to adjust his support team.
A difficult season marked by setbacks
Zverev’s 2025 season has been far from smooth. Despite holding the world number three ranking, he has struggled with consistency and physical issues, particularly recurring back problems. His recent early exit at the high-profile exhibition tournament in Saudi Arabia, where he lost to Taylor Fritz in the opening round, added to a string of underwhelming results. The tournament concluded with Jannik Sinner defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
Staying positive amid criticism
Despite the challenges, Zverev remains focused on the road ahead. “But everything will work out and I’m full of confidence that I’ll find my form again and play good tennis again,” he said. He emphasized the quality of his training in Saudi Arabia and expressed optimism about the upcoming indoor tournaments. “And now there are tournaments that I really like indoors, Vienna and Paris, where I won last year. I think I can play good tennis there again.”
ATP Vienna - Alexander Zverev's projected path
Alexander Zverev in 2025
At the moment ranked no.3, the German played his last match on the 6th of October when he surrendered to world no.27 Arthur Rinderknech 4-6 6-3 6-2 in the 3rd round in Shanghai (draw).
At present, during this year the German owns an overall 48-21 record. This year, Alexander clinched 1 title in Munich. Zverev was the runner-up at the Australian Open and Stuttgart.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 27th of October.