Alexander Zverev, the world No. 2 and one of the most consistent and dominant players on the ATP Tour over the past decade, has opened up about the challenge that continues to elude him: winning a Grand Slam title. Despite an impressive career filled with notable achievements—23 ATP titles, including two ATP Finals crowns—Zverev has yet to capture the prestigious victory at one of tennis’ four major tournaments. His struggles at the Grand Slam level have been a source of frustration for the German, who has come agonizingly close to winning, having reached the final of two Grand Slams, only to fall short both times.
At the 2024 ATP Finals, Zverev was candid in admitting that there is an ongoing issue when it comes to competing in Grand Slam events. Although he has enjoyed considerable success in other prestigious tournaments, including winning the ATP Finals twice, the elusive Grand Slam title remains just beyond his grasp. The 27-year-old, who has also won Olympic gold in men’s singles in Tokyo, acknowledged the mental and physical challenges of performing at the highest level in Grand Slams. With his ranking as the second-best player in the world, Zverev clearly has the talent to succeed at the majors. However, there is a psychological aspect that has hindered his Grand Slam ambitions.
**The Grand Slam Conundrum: Zverev’s Struggle with the Long Haul**
For Zverev, the crux of the issue lies in his tendency to engage in long, exhausting matches during the early rounds of Grand Slams. These drawn-out encounters, often requiring five sets, take a toll on his energy and physical reserves as the tournament progresses. According to Zverev, the problem is not necessarily his ability to compete against top-ranked players but rather his inability to capitalize on his early matches at Grand Slam events. In other tournaments, the format often allows for less strenuous early rounds, but in Grand Slams, the tournament’s rigorous structure demands consistent top-level performance from the very first round.
As Zverev explained in a recent pre-tournament press conference, the stakes in Grand Slam events are incredibly high, as every match counts significantly towards advancing in the tournament. “For me, it’s special to play one of the eight best players in the world from the first match on,” Zverev told reporters. “I know this is a big problem of mine in other tournaments, especially in Grand Slams. I play long, long matches and I play unnecessary five-set matches against players which maybe I shouldn’t play five sets against. That costs me at the end of the tournament.”
Zverev’s ability to perform under pressure has never been in doubt. However, his tendency to engage in lengthy, draining battles in the early rounds of Grand Slams often leaves him physically compromised when it comes time for the later rounds. “It’s maybe a mindset for me which I have to carry into Grand Slams and other tournaments as well,” he continued. “But there’s something which motivates me to play my best against the best from the first point on.” This shift in mindset—where he seeks to play his best from the outset—could prove crucial in his quest to secure a Grand Slam title.
The German’s candid admission reflects a deeper understanding of the psychological challenges he faces at the majors. It’s clear that Zverev’s issue is not with his talent, as his consistency and skill on the ATP Tour demonstrate. Instead, it’s a matter of approach, preparation, and mental fortitude at the highest level, where the smallest slip can cost a player dearly. Given his exceptional career, including his two ATP Finals wins and Olympic gold, Zverev clearly has the ability to achieve Grand Slam success—but unlocking this potential at the majors has proven elusive.
**Looking Forward: Zverev’s ATP Finals Challenge**
As the 2024 ATP Finals approach, Zverev will face an opportunity to add a third season-ending title to his already impressive resume. The German has been drawn into the John Newcombe group, alongside some of the tour’s most formidable players: Carlos Alcaraz, Andrey Rublev, and Casper Ruud. Zverev will kick off his tournament campaign against Rublev, who has been a consistent performer on the ATP Tour and is known for his aggressive, hard-hitting style. Their match is scheduled for the evening of November 11, and it promises to be an exciting clash between two of the most powerful players in men’s tennis.
Zverev has a strong record against Rublev, leading their head-to-head 6-3, which suggests the German could have the edge going into this encounter. However, Rublev is no stranger to big moments, and Zverev will need to bring his A-game to ensure victory. The ATP Finals are always a high-pressure environment, and for Zverev, this tournament represents yet another opportunity to showcase his immense talent and perhaps prove that he can succeed in the most challenging conditions.
Reflecting on his experiences in Italy, Zverev shared his enthusiasm for playing in Turin, a city that holds special memories for him. “I won the first-ever year here in Turin, so there are a lot of special memories that connect me to Italy,” he said. “I am a bit out there, and I think the Italian people are also a bit [out there], so it is fitting. I really love the atmosphere the Italians give.” Zverev’s fondness for the Italian crowd and the tournament’s vibrant atmosphere could serve as a motivating factor as he prepares for what promises to be a challenging group stage.
**The Road to Grand Slam Glory**
As Zverev prepares for the ATP Finals, his mind will inevitably turn to his long-term goal of winning a Grand Slam. He has already proven his worth on the ATP Tour, consistently finishing among the best and challenging the top players on the circuit. Yet, his Grand Slam struggles remain a key talking point in his career. Zverev’s ability to turn his experiences in the ATP Finals and other events into success at the majors will be crucial for him going forward. His chances of winning a Grand Slam will depend not only on his physical fitness but also on his mental approach, where every point, every game, and every match must be treated with the same intensity as the finals of a major.
It’s also worth noting that the German has come very close to securing a major title on multiple occasions. He reached the US Open final in 2020, only to fall short against Dominic Thiem in a five-set thriller. More recently, in June 2024, Zverev played in the French Open final but was defeated by the rising star Carlos Alcaraz in a match that showed both the German’s vulnerability and his immense potential. With these narrow defeats fresh in his mind, Zverev will undoubtedly be motivated to push through the barriers that have stopped him from claiming a Grand Slam title thus far.
As he continues to compete at the highest level, Alexander Zverev remains one of the most exciting and talented players on the ATP Tour. His journey to Grand Slam glory may have its obstacles, but the German’s persistence and drive suggest that it’s only a matter of time before he adds one of tennis’ most coveted trophies to his collection. Whether or not this breakthrough happens at the 2024 ATP Finals or further down the road, Zverev’s future in tennis is still very bright.