Wilander backs Alexander Zverev's Grand Slam potential after dominant Australian Open debut

Mats Wilander discussed the possibility of Alexander Zverev securing a Grand Slam title following the German’s impressive debut at the Australian Open. The world No. 2 has come close to a major title before and arrives in Melbourne as one of the favourites.

Zverev demonstrated his ambitions in his opening match, securing a straightforward victory over Lucas Pouille 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. The win marked his 102nd Grand Slam main draw victory (26th in Australia) as he continues building his record in pursuit of his first title.

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The German achieved a 73% first-serve percentage, winning 68% of those points, along with 18 aces and no breaks conceded throughout the match. “The serve is unbelievable; he served great again today, so that is his biggest weapon. He does have it in him to win a Grand Slam, I am convinced,” said Wilander.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion praised Zverev's improvements this year: “It’s hard to say, but I thought it was a pretty good match,” Wilander told Eurosport. “He has made a few changes which are more aggressive, and I think that’s what he needs to do.”

Zverev aims to become the first German player to win the Australian Open title since Boris Becker in 1996. The world No. 2 will face Spain’s Pedro Martínez in the second round.

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