"He hasn't managed to really develop his game further": Michael Stich gives harsh verdict on Alexander Zverev's past three to four years
ATPWednesday, 22 November 2023 at 21:30
Michael
Stich, speaking on the SkySports podcast "Maddog & Wingman,"
shared his thoughts on Alexander Zverev, expressing the view that the German
player has not shown significant development in the past four years.
Stich, a
former German tennis player who won the 1991 Wimbledon Championship (defeating
Boris Becker) and reached two other Grand Slam finals at the US Open and Roland
Garros, is now a tennis commentator.
Zverev
faced a significant setback with a serious ankle injury in the semifinals of
the 2022 French Open while performing well against the 14-times champion Rafael
Nadal. This injury kept him out of the ATP Tour for the entire year, and he
made his comeback in 2023. Zverev was initially outside the top 20 until early
July but managed to stage a strong late-season campaign to re-enter the top 10
(No. 7) and qualify for the ATP Finals.
Despite
these achievements, Michael Stich analyzed Zverev's game and expressed the
opinion that the young German player still needs to take the next step to
become a better tennis player:
“In most
cases the judgments of many observers are well-intentioned; they actually wish
that he would take this next step so that he could become an even better tennis
player. I think he always sees this as criticism of himself and his game -
which it really isn't," Stich stated.
" In
the last three or four years - from my perspective - he hasn't managed to
really develop his game further. (...) Whether he can and wants to do that,
only he knows,” he added.
"It
was a strong comeback year. That was not to be expected, that has to be said
very clearly. He was there at the finals. If he was in the summer If someone
had said: 'Come on, boy, you're in the Top 8 in Turin,' he would have looked a
bit strange at first. But he did it."
Zverev had
a strong performance in his 6th participation in the Finals, although it was
not enough to qualify for the semifinals. 'Sascha' made a notable start by
surprising the world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in the first match (6-7, 6-3, 6-4).
However, he experienced a defeat against Daniil Medvedev (6-7, 6-4) and
concluded with a solid victory over Andrey Rublev (6-4, 6-4).
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Iga needs to make a decision whether she wants to continue the sport of tennis or pursue whatever she has going on in her personal life. One can tell that tennis is no longer an interest of hers. She should retire while she is on top, not when she slides to the bottom of the rankings. She has too much talent to look how she does on the court these days. She looks more like a wild card than a champion.crissy09-09-2026
- Looks like tennis has become a part of the American Oligarchy. As usual, Pegula is given a cupcake draw. With all her money, they have to fixed the draws in her favor in order to raised the trophy.crissy09-09-2026
- Huge win for Ben! He needed this. Amazing that Alcaraz took over four months off and still was able to make the QF’s and take Ben to a fifth set tie break! Insane tennis. Tiafoe vs. Shelton should be a good one too. Americans might finally get their US Open Champion after 23 years!DaveyWavey09-09-2026
- No one else would get away with this but these AMERCANS! It’s the US Open!! In America!! But sure, go off American ;)DaveyWavey08-09-2026
- WOW !!! Her comebacks have been intense. She's Baaaaack!
mandoist08-09-2026 - Don't lay this shitshow on "Americans". It is a long-running Ego trip with WTA allowing these two Elitists 'in need of a Camera' illicit Wildcards. If these two clowns want to "perform" -- then play the qualies.mandoist08-09-2026
- Here we go again…. Different rules for Americans! Especially THESE Americans. Yuck!DaveyWavey07-09-2026
- It almost feels like they’re on their own “Legacy Tour” by playing these events … but losing each one! No press = $$$ fineDaveyWavey07-09-2026
- Love to listen to Mirra. However, I'm worried about her eyesight if she thinks oversized lips is "pretty".mandoist06-09-2026
- One of the most amazing comebacks in a long, long time. It happens (and Keys shouldn't lose her crackers over this). If Madison starts playing Dress-up and walking out on court like some fantasy character with a Mental Problem... then she should really start worrying!mandoist06-09-2026
Loading
