The Davis Cup format, revamped in 2019, continues to divide opinion within the tennis community. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) introduced the changes to make the competition more appealing to top players, who were increasingly skipping the event. While home-and-away ties have returned in the qualifying rounds, the Finals still feature the top eight teams competing in one location, with Bologna hosting the 2025 edition.
Zverev’s harsh words
German star Alexander Zverev, competing in Bologna, voiced strong criticism of the current format. “It is an exhibition tournament in a way that is called Davis Cup,” Zverev said during the ATP Finals, echoing the frustration of those who feel the event has lost its traditional identity.
Hutchins stands firm
Ross Hutchins, the new ITF Chief Executive, defended the format in an interview with Reuters. “The nations are the ones that we also have to listen to and there’s been huge support. More players have played this year than ever before … a huge amount of nations are participating in this competition and therefore, we have to embrace that side of the thinking as well. We do have close relationships with the other governing bodies in tennis. We do have close relationships with players. We’re willing to have the conversation across anything that comes to their minds,” Hutchins explained. He added that the ITF is “always open to a conversation” if adjustments are needed.
Withdrawals before the Final 8
The 2025 Davis Cup Final 8 faced challenges when Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Lorenzo Musetti withdrew shortly before the tournament began. Despite these setbacks, Hutchins insisted the event’s energy remained intact. He claimed the withdrawals “did not dampen the enthusiasm” surrounding the competition.
The debate over the Davis Cup format is far from settled. While critics like Zverev argue the event has lost its essence, Hutchins and the ITF maintain that the current structure ensures broader participation and global appeal. The coming years will reveal whether the format can balance tradition with modern demands and continue to thrive as one of tennis’s most prestigious competitions.
Alexander Zverev in 2025
Now the world no.3, Zverev played his last match on the 14th of November when he beat world no.9 Ben Shelton 6-3 7-6(6) in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This season Alexander has a 55-25 win-loss record. Alexander clinched 1 title in Munich. Zverev got to the final at the Australian Open, Stuttgart and Vienna.
