Tennis legend Andre Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam champion, has claimed that Alexander Zverev’s backhand may be the best shot tennis has ever seen, highlighting its exceptional quality during discussions ahead of the French Open 2025. Speaking to TNT Sports, Agassi said, “Zverev is a heck of a talent… While I praise his backhand — calling it arguably the best backhand we will ever see in the game,” emphasizing its precision and power as a standout weapon. This praise comes as Zverev, the world No. 3, aims for his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros, where he faces Learner Tien in the first round on May 27. Agassi’s endorsement, alongside Alex de Minaur’s 27th win of 2025 against Laslo Djere, underscores the German’s potential amidst the French Open’s themes of resilience, seen in Iga Swiatek’s dominance and Emma Raducanu’s grit.
Zverev’s Backhand and Agassi’s Analysis
Zverev’s two-handed backhand, known for its consistency, speed, and ability to dictate play, has been a cornerstone of his game, contributing to his 23 ATP titles, including six Masters 1000s. Agassi, whose own backhand was a flat, accurate weapon during his career, noted Zverev’s 6’6” frame and mobility as complementary to this shot, saying, “Anybody who is 6ft 6in and can move the way he moves is a real threat.” However, Agassi critiqued Zverev’s forehand, suggesting he’s “too passive” and should “shut down the forehand moving forward more than backwards” to elevate his game. This advice aligns with Zverev’s 0-3 Grand Slam final record, including a five-set loss to Carlos Alcaraz at Roland Garros 2024.
Fans on X echoed the sentiment, though some noted Agassi’s forehand critique. Zverev’s backhand shone in his 2024 season, with 69 match wins and a Paris Masters title, reinforcing Agassi’s claim.
French Open Context and De Minaur Connection
Zverev’s quest for a first Grand Slam, bolstered by Agassi’s praise, parallels Alex de Minaur’s Roland Garros journey, where the Australian secured his 27th win of 2025 against Djere. De Minaur, who aims to improve his topspin forehand inspired by Alcaraz, shares Zverev’s drive for clay-court breakthroughs, despite a worrying limp. Both players embody the French Open’s resilience narrative, alongside Swiatek’s 6-2, 6-1 win over Raducanu, and controversies like Zverev’s Italian Open ball complaints. Agassi’s own clay success, including his 1999 French Open title, lends weight to his analysis of Zverev.
Conclusion
Andre Agassi’s claim that Alexander Zverev’s backhand may be the best tennis has ever seen highlights the German’s elite shot as he chases a Grand Slam at Roland Garros 2025. While Agassi urged a more aggressive forehand, Zverev’s backhand remains a weapon, as seen in his 69 wins in 2024. Like de Minaur’s 27th win and fight against Djere, Zverev’s pursuit, backed by Agassi’s insight, fits the French Open’s themes of grit, with fans hopeful for his success against Tien.
