Seven years ago, 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer made an intriguing prediction about Alexander Zverev. Back in 2017, Federer backed the German as one of the standout players for the next decade.
Since then, Zverev has claimed 18 titles, including five Masters 1000 trophies and two ATP Finals titles. However, when it comes to Grand Slams, the world No. 2 has yet to break through, falling short in all three major finals he has contested.
In 2020, Zverev reached his first Grand Slam final, coming within touching distance of the title after going two sets up against Dominic Thiem. His next shot came at the 2024 French Open, where he lost in straight sets to Carlos Alcaraz. Most recently, in 2025, he fell to Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open final.
Federer’s high praise for Zverev came in 2017 when he was thrilled to see the then-20-year-old join Team Europe in the Laver Cup.
“The last member of Team Europe, picked by Bjorn Borg as a captain’s pick, is going to be Alexander Zverev, which we are very excited about because he’s had a wonderful year,” Federer said. “It’s great news. We were very excited when we heard it.”
“Yeah, I think it’s a great pick. I’m happy he made himself available. He’s had a wonderful year,” Federer added. “I think we share the opinion—he’s going to be one of the great players for the next ten years in our game, a great sport, and I’m sure he’s going to be a great team player, as well. Of course, we’re very, very happy to have him on the team.”
Zverev and Federer shared the Team Europe bench on three occasions, competing together from the Laver Cup’s inaugural edition in 2017 until 2019. In fact, Zverev holds the record for most Laver Cup appearances, having also played in 2021 and 2024—tying Frances Tiafoe.
Additionally, Federer and Zverev are level as the players with the most singles wins in Laver Cup history, each boasting six victories. However, while the German has suffered two losses, the Swiss Maestro remains undefeated in Laver Cup singles matches.
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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