“Most efficient server on Tour”: Andy Roddick praises Alexander Zverev and offers tactical advice
ATP
Andy Roddick has named Alexander Zverev’s serve the most effective on the ATP Tour and suggested a few adjustments to make it even more efficient. The World No. 2 competed at the United Cup this week, earning two wins before withdrawing from the quarterfinals due to discomfort in his right bicep.
‘Sascha’ played a pivotal role in Germany’s advancement, defeating Thiago Monteiro (6-4, 6-4) and Zhang Zhizhen (2-6, 6-0, 6-2). The two-time Grand Slam finalist also teamed up with Laura Siegemund for mixed doubles, beating China’s Zhang Shuai and Zhang Zhizhen (6-2, 7-6).
Zverev was scheduled to face Alexander Shevchenko (World No. 78) of Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals but was replaced by teammate Daniel Masur (World No. 256). Earlier, Elena Rybakina (World No. 6) had defeated Laura Siegemund (World No. 80), and Shevchenko's victory secured Kazakhstan’s historic semifinal berth at the tournament.
Zverev’s injury raises concerns just 11 days before the Australian Open, where he is the second seed and considered a top contender to challenge the dominance of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Alexander Zverev at 2025 United Cup.
Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick lauded Zverev’s serve as a cornerstone to achieve a Grand Slam title. “Sascha is the most efficient server in tennis at the moment, with over 75% of first serves. It seems almost a joke to see how he has become the most efficient server on tour. Some adjustments could be important for him to come to the net earlier,” Roddick remarked.
“In the final of Roland Garros this year, he was one set away from winning his first Grand Slam again and was ahead against Alcaraz,” the 2003 US Open champion remembered. “In fact, he did not play badly in the last two sets. I do not want to criticize anyone and say that he did not achieve great results because he was unable to win that duel," the American added.
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So far, there has been no update on the severity of Zverev’s injury or whether he will be in peak condition for the Australian Open. Last year, Zverev reached the semifinals and led Daniil Medvedev by two sets before the Russian staged a remarkable comeback to secure a place in the final.
Zverev faces significant points to defend early in the season, and his ranking gap with World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz could narrow if he underperforms in Melbourne. The Spaniard might even overtake Zverev once the tournament concludes.
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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