Boris Becker, the six-time Grand Slam champion, has ignited a heated debate in the tennis world by suggesting that Alexander Zverev should overhaul his coaching team to improve his chances of winning a Grand Slam title. Becker’s comments come after Zverev’s quarterfinal loss to Novak Djokovic at the 2025 French Open.
A Fresh Perspective
Becker believes that Zverev’s current coaching setup, led by his father Alexander Sr. and brother Mischa, is hindering his progress. He argues that a new coach could bring a fresh perspective and strategic adjustments to Zverev’s game, which could be the key to unlocking his Grand Slam potential. Becker pointed to Rafael Nadal’s successful transition from his uncle Toni to Carlos Moya as an example of the benefits of a coaching change ¹.
Stagnation Against Elite Players
Becker’s critique centers on Zverev’s inability to adapt his game against top players. He notes that Zverev’s passive play against Djokovic was exposed by the Serbian’s relentless pressure. Becker believes that Zverev needs to develop a more aggressive approach to take his game to the next level ².
Potential Candidates
Becker’s comments have fueled speculation about potential coaching changes. Some have suggested that Becker himself could join Zverev’s team, given his experience and success coaching Djokovic. Another potential candidate is Andy Murray, a Grand Slam champion who understands the pressures of competing at the highest level ³.
Zverev’s Response
Zverev has defended his current coaching team, stating that he lost to one of the greatest players in history and that the defeat didn’t warrant a complete overhaul. However, Becker’s comments have sparked a wider debate about the importance of coaching in tennis and the potential benefits of a fresh perspective
What’s Next?
As Zverev prepares for the grass-court season, the pressure is on him to finally break through and win a Grand Slam title. Will he heed Becker’s advice and make a coaching change, or will he stick with his current team? The answer could determine whether Zverev finally achieves his Grand Slam dream or remains a perennial contender ¹.
