"I serve better than both of them probably": Alexander Zverev reflects on rivalries with Sinner and Alcaraz
ATP
Alexander Zverev discussed his rivalry with Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in a conversation with his brother, former World No. 25 Mischa Zverev. The current World No. 2 highlighted one area where he considers himself stronger than his main rivals at the moment.
The ATP podium currently seems undisputed. Sinner (No. 1) and Alcaraz (No. 3) have shared the last 4 Grand Slam titles over the past 52 weeks. Zverev (No. 2) has reached two major finals and won two Masters 1000 titles, pulling ahead of his challengers.
In fact, in his last two Grand Slam finals, Zverev lost to Alcaraz at the 2024 French Open and to Sinner at the 2025 Australian Open. The German had some chances to overtake Sinner for the top ranking during his suspension months, but his recent results make it almost impossible, unless he wins the next three consecutive Masters 1000 titles in Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid.
Although Zverev is often considered a step behind Alcaraz and Sinner – having failed three times in Grand Slam finals – Zverev feels that with improvements in certain areas of his game, he can compete with them.
"I think there are certain shots in my game which I still need to improve," said Zverev. "I still think Carlos and Jannik do things a lot better than me. I do believe that. I think there are certain things I can improve on. "Short high forehands is the number one thing we are working on every day for the past four or five months now. That is just one of the things, but I think that is the main focus."
Zverev also commented that his serve is superior to that of his rivals. "I serve better than both of them probably, but I am 6ft 6. Carlos can’t just grow six more inches. But there are certain things that they do better that I can improve and it’s not just something physical, like height. "When they get a high short ball, the point is over, 95% of the time. It’s either a winner or an error. With me, the point continues," Zverev added.
Zverev entered the Indian Wells Masters as the first seed but suffered an early defeat in his debut against Tallon Griekspoor (6-4, 6-7, 6-7). The German must now move on and prepare for the Miami Open, which starts next week, where he will again be the first seed due to Sinner's suspension.
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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