Alexander Zverev is determined to fine-tune his game ahead of Roland Garros in Paris, but he also aims to stop the unstoppable Jannik Sinner, who once again proved his superiority in Madrid. The German holds special memories of Rome, where he claimed his first career Masters title. Exactly two years ago, he achieved his first major triumph there after recovering from a dramatic ankle injury.
“These are very fond memories,” said the world No. 3, who is confident he can leave his mark once again. However, to do so, he must overcome what now seems nearly impossible. “Everyone on the tour needs to find a way to stop him,” Zverev stated in an interview with Sky, referring to the current dominant force, Sinner.
Sinner (left) and Zverev (right) after the Madrid final.
Italy’s national hero, still only 24, can achieve the coveted “Golden Masters” in front of his home crowd. He has already won eight of the nine top-tier ATP tournaments and recently became the first professional to win five in a row.
Boris Becker Calls for More Fighting Spirit
The biggest casualty of Sinner’s extraordinary run is Zverev, who has lost to Jannik three times this year in semifinals, in addition to the Madrid final. His last match in Madrid left a discouraging impression regarding his title chances at the upcoming clay-court major in Paris (starting May 24). Zverev is eager to change that narrative.
A. Zverev does not want to be just Sinner’s sparring partner en route to his next trophy. “I’d like to see a bit more fighting spirit, a bit more aggression,” commented legend Boris Becker recently on his podcast alongside Andrea Petkovic.
He was referring to all of Sinner’s opponents, with Zverev—given Alcaraz’s injury—being the prime reference: “That attitude of saying, ‘Today I’m going to make it especially difficult for you.'”
Duel with Altmaier
A new meeting with Sinner in Rome could only happen in the final, but Zverev must first advance through the rounds. His path begins with a challenging encounter against Daniel Altmaier, who clearly remembers his heavy loss to Alexander Zverev in Munich in 2025. “Last year I wasn’t at my best. Honestly, I’m glad to get a chance for revenge,” said the 27-year-old, who wants to take to the court with a good dose of controlled anger.
Sinner is currently the absolute benchmark.