Alexander Zverev is ready for the most important part of the hard-court season after completing a 10-day training block at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca. The German star returned to the Spanish island as he prepares for the North American swing, with two Masters 1000 tournaments and the US Open ahead in a crucial stretch that could define the final months of his 2026 campaign.
Fresh from a breakthrough season that included his first Roland Garros title and a Wimbledon final appearance, Zverev chose Mallorca as his preparation base before traveling to Canada and the United States. The world No. 3 has already established himself as one of the leading contenders at the biggest tournaments, but he knows the final Grand Slam of the year will require his best level.
Zverev explained that his main focus during this period is simple: preparing physically and mentally to arrive in North America ready to compete. “The year is not over and we’re going to the North American swing and two Masters and a Grand Slam coming up, which is very important,” the German said from the Academy. "And of course, I’m here to prepare for that and hopefully show my best tennis there as well."
The 29-year-old also highlighted why Mallorca has become an attractive destination for his preparation. “I love Mallorca in general, so it’s just a great island to be. I think in the summer, especially, it’s great preparation. You have a lot of heat here, which you will need in America as well."
Zverev receives Nadal’s advice before North American swing
During his training block, Zverev also benefited from the presence of Toni Nadal and several sessions alongside Rafael Nadal. The German, who has faced Nadal countless times throughout his career, valued the opportunity to receive feedback from one of his greatest rivals and from a team with decades of experience at the highest level.
“The facilities here, they’re incredible. I think it’s quite obviously one of the best academies in the world. But you can also have privacy here, which is very nice for me. And I enjoy coming back here,” Zverev said about his decision to return to the academy.
The German also praised Nadal’s involvement in his preparation. “Uncle Tony is on the court quite a lot with us. Rafa also came twice. And it’s great to hear what their opinion is about my game,” he explained.
“I think I’ve been playing against Rafa for 10 years, so it’s nice to hear from him from a competitive standpoint, but also what he thinks I can improve in my game. I still want to improve every single day. So I think it was a great help to have him on the court,” Zverev added.
Zverev chasing another milestone after Roland Garros breakthrough
Zverev arrives at the North American swing with a completely different feeling compared to previous seasons. Earlier this year, he finally captured his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros, overcoming one of the biggest obstacles of his career after years of coming close at the majors.
“Of course, personally, it’s a relief. It’s a tournament that I’ve been waiting for a long time to win,"Zverev said. "My first Grand Slam, it felt like I won on every other level. And of course, the Grand Slam was the thing missing."
Despite already achieving one of the biggest goals of his career, the German made clear that his ambitions remain high. “I was very happy and very satisfied to finally win. I think the goal is quite obvious. I’m working hard, I’m training hard. The goal, I think, is very, very obvious for me,” he added.
Zverev will now turn his attention toward the Canadian Open, Cincinnati and finally the US Open, where he reached the final in 2020 but is still searching for his first title in New York. After another preparation block in Mallorca and with Nadal’s advice fresh in his mind, the German will look to prove that his Grand Slam breakthrough was only the beginning.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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