Alexander Zverev Hopes Nadal Mentorship Will Boost US Open Chances

Zverev turns to Nadal for Grand Slam success

Alexander Zverev seeks guidance from Rafael Nadal and his uncle Toni to improve his game ahead of the US Open. Find out how this mentorship could impact his Grand Slam chances.

Alexander Zverev is feeling more positive about his mental state ahead of the US Open, thanks to support from friends and professional help. After a tough first-round exit at Wimbledon, Zverev opened up about feeling “alone” and “empty,” but says he's now “on the right path.” He took an uncharacteristic break from his rigorous training routine, spending time with friends and family, and sought professional help to address his mental health concerns.

Zverev's decision to prioritize his mental well-being comes after a difficult season, including a disappointing loss at Wimbledon. He believes seeking professional help is a step in the right direction, saying, “Got professional help also, which I'm still working with now. Yeah, I'm on the right path.” With the US Open singles tournament starting soon, Zverev is hopeful about his chances, entering the tournament as the third seed.

As Zverev prepares for the US Open, he's focused on lifting a Grand Slam trophy. Despite struggling with mental health issues earlier in the season, Zverev is determined to make a strong impression in New York. He's reached the quarter-final stage or better in his last four US Open appearances and is looking to build on this success.

Alexander Zverev is gearing up for the US Open, feeling revitalized after a break. “Oh, I'm feeling a lot better,” Zverev said, attributing his improved state to time off after Wimbledon. He took a well-deserved rest, hanging out with friends, and skipping training sessions. “After Wimbledon (I) put my racket down and took extended time off and I went on holidays with my friends where I didn't train, didn't play tennis, didn't do anything to what I usually do,” he explained.

This renewed energy might just be what Zverev needs to make a deep run in the tournament. His upcoming match is against Alejandro Tabilo, scheduled for August 25, 2025. Given his recent comments, it seems Zverev is focused on his game and determined to perform well.

Alexander Zverev credits his recent success to taking time off and seeking professional help. “I went and had some time off. Spent a lot of time with my friends. Got professional help also, which I'm still working with now,” Zverev shared. ”Yeah, I'm on the right path.” This change in approach seems to be paying off, as evident from his impressive performances at the ATP Toronto Masters and Cincinnati Open.

Zverev's renewed focus on mental well-being has yielded positive results, with him reaching the semi-finals in both Toronto and Cincinnati. His openness about struggling with mental health issues has sparked a supportive response from the tennis community, including players like Aryna Sabalenka and Emma Raducanu, who have shared their own experiences with therapy and mental health challenges.

“I really enjoyed the last two tournaments. I really enjoyed being back on the tennis court,” he said. “I feel like everything is going in the right direction, and I'm very happy to be here right now.”

Alexander Zverev is still chasing his first Grand Slam title, despite reaching three finals. His journey has seen him fall short against top opponents, including Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open, Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open final, and Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open this year. Reflecting on his aspirations, Zverev said, “I'm looking for the last step, right. I'm looking to lift one of those above my head once. That's what I'm looking for.”

Best friends is SO back!

Zverev and Melo get candid in conversation, sharing their wishes for each other & the funniest moments together on Tour 🙌 pic.twitter.com/yRzYgoxLeo

— ATP Tour (@atptour) August 20, 2025

With a strong record in ATP tournaments, Zverev has secured 23 singles titles and two doubles titles. He's also excelled in major events, winning the ATP Finals in 2018 and 2021. As he prepares for the US Open, Zverev's focus remains on lifting a Grand Slam trophy, driven by his determination to succeed at the highest level.

Alexander Zverev sought guidance from tennis legends Rafael Nadal and his uncle Toni Nadal after a disappointing first-round exit at Wimbledon. Zverev hopes to glean valuable insights from the pair to enhance his game and challenge top players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. During his visit to the Rafa Nadal Academy, Zverev spent quality time with Toni, discussing strategies to improve his mental approach and game plan.

Zverev's collaboration with the Nadals may prove pivotal as he prepares for the US Open, seeking to finally claim his first Grand Slam title.

“It's about finding ways to beat the best players in the world, right?” Zverev said. “It's about finding the right patterns, the right training to do that.

“That's why I went to see Uncle Toni and Rafa, because I wanted to see and then hear a new vision of what tennis in their mind looks like and how my tennis in their mind looks like.

“I think in tennis everybody can always improve,” Zverev said. “It's as simple as that.”