Alexander Zverev, the German tennis star ranked world No. 3, has faced a rollercoaster of a season in 2025, and former American tennis pro John Isner has stepped into the conversation, offering insights into Zverev’s struggles. After reaching the Australian Open final in January, Zverev’s form has faltered, marked by early exits and a lack of titles, prompting Isner to share advice on how the 27-year-old can navigate this challenging period. The commentary, aired on the Nothing Major podcast, sheds light on Zverev’s mental and strategic hurdles as he chases an elusive Grand Slam title.
Zverev’s 2025 began with promise. His run to the Australian Open final, where he fell to Jannik Sinner in straight sets, marked his third career Grand Slam final appearance. However, the defeat left him visibly devastated. “I am just not good enough,” Zverev said in a heartbreaking post-match press conference, admitting his 0-3 record in major finals weighed heavily. “I don’t know if I will ever be able to lift the trophy, but I will keep trying.” Isner, a former world No. 8, expressed empathy for Zverev’s emotional response but critiqued the self-doubt. “Sascha’s quote after the match… was ‘I am just not good enough.’ I like the end of that quote, I didn’t love the beginning,” Isner remarked, reflecting on the German’s mindset. The embrace between Zverev and Sinner post-match, where Zverev was seen weeping, underscored the toll of the loss.
Since Melbourne, Zverev’s season has been a study in inconsistency. First-round defeats at Indian Wells and Monte Carlo, coupled with a second-round exit in Miami, signal a slump that contrasts sharply with his earlier achievements. Despite a hard-fought win over Alexandre Muller at the Bavarian International in April, Zverev’s form remains shaky. Isner, who never reached a Grand Slam final but came close with a Wimbledon semifinal in 2018, offered pointed advice. “Sascha, it might be time to hit that button,” Isner said, suggesting Zverev needs a reset. “I don’t know what exactly he did to get out of that rut. Did he hit the practice courts harder or take some time off? For me, it’s to step back away from the game a little bit.” This counsel reflects Isner’s belief that Zverev, with his undeniable talent, must find a way to break the cycle of disappointment.
Zverev’s career is a tale of near-misses and resilience. He led by two sets in the 2020 US Open final against Dominic Thiem but fell short. In 2024, he was a set away from victory in the French Open final against Carlos Alcaraz, only to lose in five sets. An ankle injury against Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros in 2022 further highlights his run of tough luck. Isner praised Zverev’s ability to bounce back from these setbacks. “It doesn’t seem he has let those results rattle him at all,” he noted, pointing to Zverev’s mental fortitude. “If anything, it seems that it’s fueling him to eventually get over that finish line.” Zverev’s peers, including Isner and Sam Querrey, see the French Open as his best chance for a maiden Slam, given his strong clay-court record, including a 2024 Madrid Open title and seven Masters 1000 crowns.
The criticism of Zverev’s 2025 extends beyond his on-court results. His scheduling choices, such as competing in South America’s “Golden Swing” at the Argentina and Rio Opens, have raised eyebrows, with some questioning whether he’s spreading himself too thin. Off-court controversies, including a 2022 default from the Mexican Open for unsportsmanlike conduct, continue to linger in discussions about his maturity. Yet, Zverev’s supporters argue that his commitment to representing Germany in the Davis Cup—where he won both singles matches against Brazil in 2025—shows his dedication. His Laver Cup heroics, including a comeback win over Frances Tiafoe in 2024 to secure Team Europe’s victory, further highlight his clutch performance under pressure.
Isner’s perspective is shaped by his own career, where consistency at the ATP level never translated to Grand Slam glory. His advice to Zverev emphasizes balance—knowing when to grind and when to pause. Zverev’s current ranking drop to No. 3, behind Sinner and Alcaraz, might ease the pressure, allowing him to recalibrate. “Form is temporary, class is permanent,” Isner’s podcast co-hosts quipped, a sentiment that captures Zverev’s potential to rebound. With the clay season in full swing, including upcoming tournaments in Barcelona and Rome, Zverev has opportunities to rebuild momentum before Roland Garros, where he reached the final last year.
The tennis world remains divided on Zverev’s trajectory. Critics point to his Grand Slam final losses as evidence of a mental block, while supporters see a player inches from greatness. Isner’s commentary bridges both views, acknowledging Zverev’s pain while urging him to harness his resilience. As Zverev navigates this “crisis,” his next steps—whether intensifying practice or taking a breather—will define his path. For now, the German’s quest for a major title continues, fueled by heartbreak and hope.