Tim Henman
commented on the changes Alexander Zverev needs to make in order to win a Grand
Slam. The former world No. 4 suggested that the only way the German can surpass
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in the fight for major titles is by making a
significant change in his approach during critical moments.
‘Sascha’
can already be considered one of the most iconic players without winning a
Grand Slam title, having won 7 Masters 1000, two ATP Finals, and the gold medal
at Tokyo 2020. After six semifinals and two finals, Zverev has repeatedly
fallen short in his pursuit of a major title. In fact, with 101 wins and 35
losses, he holds the best record in Grand Slam tournaments without a title
(74.26%).
Zverev’s Grand Slam Dream: Henman reveals the key
After the
golden era of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, the change
generation seemed to emerge, with Zverev at the forefront alongside players
like Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Andrey Rublev. However, they have
failed to surpass the Big-3. The recent rise of Alcaraz and Sinner looks set to
lead the sport in the coming years, having each claimed two Grand Slam titles
this season.
Zverev,
ranked No. 2, had a disappointing performance at the ATP Finals after being
eliminated in the semifinals by Taylor Fritz (3-6, 6-3, 6-7). Although he
topped his group with three consecutive wins, he couldn’t manage to get past
the American, a performance later analyzed by Henman:
“There were a few moments
where I don’t think Sasha took that forward step and played on his terms,”
Henman told Sky Sports Tennis. “He got a bit passive on the forehand in the
tiebreak and I don’t think that’s something that he didn’t know already.”
“I think he
can win a Slam but if he plays like that, he won’t. He needs to be prepared to
take it on.”
Read also
Zverev was
very close in the 2020 US Open final but allowed a dramatic comeback by Thiem.
The German was two sets up, a break up in the third, and also had a break
advantage in the fifth (when he served for the match at 5-3), but he couldn’t
close it out. In a match defined by errors and nerves from both players, the
Austrian triumphed 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(6) after over 4 hours. ‘Sascha’
wasted an incredible opportunity to win the title in his first final.
This year,
against Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open, Zverev was up two sets to one, but
the Spaniard made a remarkable comeback, dominating in the final stages to win
his third major title 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2.
Alexander Zverev at 2024 ATP Finals.
Henman
still believes that Zverev has aspects to adjust, despite being at an
impressive level. “He is just playing brilliantly. His serving is incredible –
80 percent first serves,” said Henman. “It used to be that if you got above 60,
you’d think you’d had a good serving day. He is also more aggressive from the
back of the court.
“Before,
you used to say he was a bit one-dimensional – banging down big serves and then
just playing from the baseline. But now, when he gets the opportunity to cut
off the angle and move forward, he takes it.”
“You would
have to say it looks like when and not if he will win a Grand Slam now. He is
playing that well and has taken his game to the next level,” Henman added. “He
was able to do that in the very key moments in this matchup. He just
trusted himself.”
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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