"You just need to get better" - Rick Macci has strong words for Alexander Zverev after the German's complaints on court speed

Legendary tennis coach Rick Macci had some words of advice for German tennis star Alexander Zverev and anyone else who insinuated that tournament organizers were slowing down the courts in order to favor top superstars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz; get better.

Seeded third at the ongoing Shanghai Masters, Zverev defeated French player Valentin Royer in his opening round match. The German was coming off a quarterfinal appearance at the China Open, where he lost to familiar foe Daniil Medvedev in straight sets.

Following his victory over Royer, Zverev made what many considered to be controversial comments regarding the speed of the court. The former World No.2 stated the courts in Shanghai were slower than what he's used to, and hinted at organizers trying to slow down courts in recent years so as to favor the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, whom are more likely to draw attention at these events.

Zverev's comments did not sit well with members of the tennis community. Several fans chimed in on the issue, accusing the German of being a sore loser due to his lack of success against the top-ranked duo.

The American coach refused to remain silent regarding Zverev's comments. Macci took to social media to accuse Zverev of being petty, before advising the 28-year old to get better.

"Zverev and others are chirping saying the directors adjust the court speeds to favor Alcaraz/ Sinner. This is another level of petty because they are another level. You just need to get better on any court speed than it does not matter. RIGHT," wrote Macci on Twitter.

Nonetheless, Zverev would go on to face another Frenchman as he took on Arthur Rinderknech in the third round. The German would hope to avenge his Wimbledon loss to Rinderknech earlier this summer, but squandered a first set lead as Rinderknech escaped with a 4-6 6-3 6-2 victory to advance to the round of 16.