Alexander Zverev’s 2025 season began with promise, but it’s since taken a sharp downward turn. After reaching his first Australian Open final in January, hopes were high that the German might finally claim a long-awaited Grand Slam title. However, Jannik Sinner delivered a dominant performance in the final, dashing Zverev’s dreams on Rod Laver Arena.
Since that crushing loss, Zverev’s form has nosedived.
The world No. 3 has struggled to regain momentum, managing only modest results during the South American clay swing. Disappointing early exits followed at both Indian Wells and Miami, fueling speculation that the defeat in Melbourne had left a deeper psychological mark than expected.
Zverev’s woes continued at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he bowed out early once again—this time to Matteo Berrettini. With Carlos Alcaraz’s title run in Monte Carlo, Zverev was bumped down to No. 3 in the ATP rankings. The pressure is now on to defend his upcoming points in Rome and find his footing before Roland Garros.
Isner’s Advice: Step Back to Move Forward
Speaking on the Nothing Major podcast, former American top-10 player John Isner offered Zverev some pointed but supportive advice.
“Sascha, it might be time to hit that button,” Isner said. “I don’t know exactly what he did the last time he hit a rough patch—whether it was grinding it out on the practice court or taking a break—but something’s got to give.”
Isner believes a short break might be the reset Zverev needs: “Ultimately, I think he’ll be fine. But for Sascha in particular, stepping back from the game a little, clearing his head, and getting ready for Munich—his home tournament—might help him reset.”
Zverev is expected to return to action at the Munich Open, where he’ll look to rally in front of a home crowd. With key ranking points on the line and the European clay season heating up, all eyes will be on how the German responds.
