The Zverev brothers are back at it again, sharing insights and stories that highlight the unique dynamics of their family while navigating the intense atmosphere of the 2024 Shanghai Masters. As Alexander Zverev prepares to take on formidable opponents in one of tennis’s most prestigious events, he reflects on the intricacies of his upbringing in a sports-centric household and the lasting impact of his parents on his career.
Recently, Alexander Zverev found himself sidelined due to health issues, having spent time in the hospital for lung inflammation, which forced him to withdraw from the China Open in Beijing. Despite this setback, Zverev’s journey is anything but ordinary. The depth of his experiences both on and off the court makes for a compelling narrative that resonates with tennis fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
In an episode of his podcast “A BIS Z,” Alexander was joined by his brother Mischa Zverev, and together, they delved into their tennis careers, childhood memories, and the pressure that comes from being raised in a family that prioritized athletic excellence. Their guests for the episode, Carmen and Robert Geiss, prompted an intriguing discussion by asking the brothers about their experiences growing up, specifically, “How was it for you two? Did you also play it out like mom and dad?”
Reflecting on his upbringing, Alexander provided a humorous yet poignant insight into the differences in their training experiences. Both brothers trained under the watchful eye of their father, Alexander Mikhailovich Zverev, during their formative years. However, as Alexander revealed, their father’s coaching style was markedly different for each son. “The reason my relationship with my father works so well, still as a coach and companion in tennis, is because he had Mischa before and that strictness helped him a lot,” Alexander explained.
Being the firstborn, Mischa felt the brunt of their father’s intense training regimen, characterized by strict rules, timed drills, and rigorous repetitions—elements reminiscent of classic Soviet-style coaching. In contrast, Alexander benefitted from a more lenient approach, which allowed him the freedom to explore his potential without the same intense pressure. “It was funny, I must say, because Dad was much stricter with you. That’s how it is,” he quipped, highlighting the playful sibling rivalry that underlies their relationship.
While their father was tougher on Mischa, their mother, Irina, who was also a former professional player, maintained high expectations as well. “Dad was out and about with you a lot more. He often went to tournaments with you when I was growing up, and I would say, Mom was the stricter one with me.” This nuanced family dynamic undoubtedly played a role in shaping both brothers’ careers, fostering a unique blend of discipline and flexibility that has served them well.
Mischa Zverev reached his career high ranking of 25th in 2017 before stepping back from the sport in 2021. Meanwhile, Alexander continues to compete at the highest level, though this season has posed its challenges. After the 2024 Laver Cup, he faced serious health concerns, landing in the hospital due to lung inflammation, which sidelined him for the China Open. His return to the court for the Shanghai Masters was marked by a sense of fatigue, as he candidly admitted during a press conference, “I still feel like I’m perhaps a little more tired than usual. But either I’m ending my season now—or I’m playing as well as I can.”
Despite his health struggles, Zverev was determined to rise to the occasion, believing that playing would not impede his recovery. “It’s nothing that will delay the recovery or will make it worse if I play,” he assured, emphasizing his commitment to giving his all on the court. This mindset highlights the resilience and dedication that has characterized his approach to the sport.
Zverev kicked off his campaign in Shanghai with wins against Mattia Bullucci and Tallon Griekspoor, showcasing his skill and determination despite his recent health issues. However, his journey took a turn during his match against David Goffin, where he faced an early exit from the tournament. Nonetheless, Zverev remains focused on finishing the season strong, setting his sights on securing a top-two position in the ATP rankings by the year’s end.
The Zverev brothers’ candid discussions about their childhood and their current experiences in the professional tennis circuit reveal a deeper understanding of what it takes to excel in such a competitive environment. As Alexander continues to face challenges on and off the court, the lessons learned from his upbringing will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for his future endeavors.
In conclusion, the Zverev brothers’ story is one of resilience, familial bonds, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As Alexander Zverev battles through health issues and competitive pressures, he carries with him the lessons of his childhood and the support of his family, ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead in the world of professional tennis. The journey of the Zverev family is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and the unbreakable ties that bind them together as they navigate the ups and downs of the sport they love.