Alexander Zverev’s triumph at the BMW Open has marked a critical “turning point” in his season, according to tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Boris Becker.
After a promising start to 2025, including a run to the Australian Open final where he lost to Jannik Sinner, Zverev struggled to build momentum. Despite Sinner serving a three-month suspension, the German failed to capitalize, enduring a string of disappointing results during the South American swing, the Sunshine Double, and the early clay-court tournaments. A second-round exit at the Monte Carlo Masters dashed his hopes of reaching the world No. 1 ranking for the first time.
Zverev slipped to No. 3 in the ATP Rankings, behind Carlos Alcaraz, but rebounded impressively by winning the BMW Open in Munich, defeating Ben Shelton in the final. The victory lifted him back to No. 2 and restored optimism ahead of major tournaments in Madrid, Rome, and his title pursuit at Roland Garros.
Nadal on Zverev’s Comeback
Speaking to Sky Germany during the Laureus World Sports Awards, Rafael Nadal praised Zverev’s resilience:
“He’s an incredible player. The only thing he’s missing is a Grand Slam title, but I believe he’ll achieve it eventually. Winning in Munich was an important moment — a real turning point before the second Grand Slam of the year.
I’ve always had a positive relationship with him and wish him all the best.”
Becker Confident About Zverev’s Future
Boris Becker, another long-time supporter of Zverev, echoed Nadal’s sentiments. He highlighted the importance of Zverev’s tough match against Tallon Griekspoor en route to the Munich title:
“He needed that hard-fought quarter-final to find his rhythm. His performances in the semi-final and final were superb.
I’m confident he’ll do well in Madrid and Rome. But the big dream remains Paris — to go one better than last year’s runner-up finish. Winning Munich was enormously important for him, and he’s playing great tennis again.”
Zverev’s Grand Slam Journey So Far
Zverev has reached two Grand Slam finals — finishing runner-up at the 2020 US Open and the 2024 French Open. With his form resurging, hopes are high that 2025 could finally be his breakthrough year.
