Alexander Zverev is going through a difficult time in his career.
The German started the season strongly by reaching his first Australian Open final, where he lost to world number one Jannik Sinner.
He has won a title at the Munich Open in April, but Zverev’s consistency and results at bigger events have been concerning.
Alexander Zverev is coming off an opening round defeat at Wimbledon but ahead of the American hard court swing, he could be set to make a big change.
Tommy Haas assesses the potential Toni Nadal and Alexander Zverev partnership
As Zverev aims to improve his level and achieve his dream of winning a Grand Slam, he took a trip to the Rafael Nadal Academy.
While there, Zverev, 28, was spotted training with Toni Nadal, who successfully coached his nephew to 16 of his 22 Grand Slam titles.
As a result, speculation intensified regarding the possibility of Nadal becoming Zverev’s coach, which has now been assessed by the world number three’s compatriot, Tommy Haas.
“I have a lot of respect for Toni Nadal; I think any coach who had a player like Rafa Nadal under their wings would have celebrated his success greatly.
“However, he always showed a very particular attitude both on and off the court, an ideal attitude that ended up leading to Rafa having a prodigious career.
“I have had the opportunity to speak with him; he knows very well how to seek that harmony with the player in all aspects, so Sascha will be the one to decide.
“It seems that he is now willing to consider other ways and seek alternative paths to achieve that coveted Grand Slam title.”
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty ImagesTommy Haas thinks Alexander Zverev’s Wimbledon loss can benefit him
Zverev has struggled to conquer the grass courts at Wimbledon throughout his career so far.
This remained the case in 2025 as Zverev was upset by Arthur Rinderknech in five sets in the opening round.
This was one of Zverev’s most disappointing losses of the year, but Haas has identified ways in which the three-time Grand Slam runner-up can turn it into a positive.
“What happened at Wimbledon was something very specific; I believe it is the first time in many years that he has lost in the first round of a Grand Slam tournament or lost relatively early,” Haas commented.
“Nevertheless, we knew that Wimbledon is not the tournament where he excels the most, although perhaps this may change in the future.
“This painful loss to Rinderknech may ultimately do him a lot of good in the long run, starting with the reflection time he has been able to enjoy in recent weeks.
“That time for reflection is very valuable; he will surely seek a fresh start in the American hard court season, where he usually brings out his best tennis. Perhaps this will make him even hungrier for the upcoming US Open.”