Alexander Zverev enters the 2025 Nitto ATP Finals with the goal of claiming his third title at the prestigious year-end event. But the path is steep. With Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner both in peak form and vying for the year-end No. 1 ranking, the German star finds himself outside the spotlight, often overlooked as a serious contender.
Zverev’s recent losses to Sinner in Vienna and Paris have only added to the skepticism surrounding his chances. Yet, the 28-year-old remains undeterred, ready to compete against the best in one of the most competitive editions of the tournament in recent memory.
Speaking candidly about criticism
Ahead of the Finals, Zverev spoke to SuperTennisTV about how he’s perceived by fans and the media. His comments were direct and introspective, offering insight into how he navigates public opinion.
“I think people nowadays really have a problem with professional athletes, more famous people in general, to be honest,”
Zverev said. “I think you always have to say what everybody wants you to say, right? They always would like to just hear the things that are right. And I’m not that kind of person.”He continued by acknowledging that his honesty might not always be well received.
“The media doesn’t like that, but I always stay true to myself in that way. So maybe that’s one of the reasons. Sometimes I love it, sometimes I hate it, but I’m never just neutral in anybody’s eyes,”
he added. “But if people can’t handle the truth and be honest, that’s not my problem.”Staying focused despite the noise
While Alcaraz and Sinner dominate headlines, Zverev remains focused on his own preparation. His experience at the ATP Finals, where he won titles in 2018 and 2021, gives him confidence that he can rise to the occasion. The German’s powerful baseline game and mental toughness have often served him well in high-stakes matches, and Turin could be another proving ground.
Whether or not he lifts the trophy, Zverev’s presence and perspective continue to shape the narrative of modern tennis — one where individuality and resilience matter just as much as rankings and results.
Alexander Zverev in 2025
Now the world no.3, the German played his last match on the 1st of November when he was overcome by world no.1 Jannik Sinner 6-0 6-1 in the semifinal in Paris (draw).
This season the German has achieved an overall 54-23 record. The German conquered 1 title in Munich. Alexander got to the final at the Australian Open, Stuttgart and Vienna.