“I lost to Novak Djokovic” – Alexander Zverev issues blunt response to Boris Becker’s criticism after French Open exit

Alexander Zverev’s Blunt Retort to Boris Becker After French Open 2025 Loss

Following his 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the French Open 2025 on June 4, Alexander Zverev fired back at Boris Becker’s criticism with a pointed response: “I lost to Novak Djokovic, not to some nobody.” Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion, had urged Zverev to part ways with his father, Alexander Zverev Sr., and brother, Mischa, as coaches, arguing on his *Matchball Becker* podcast that their influence limits Zverev’s ability to win a maiden Grand Slam, per Sportskeeda.com. Becker cited the family’s dominance as a barrier to top coaches like Ivan Lendl, stating, “No new coach will come while his dad is the main voice,” and pointed to Zverev’s 0-3 Grand Slam final record, per @MSports_all on X.[](https://x.com/MSports_all/status/1930990505682452909)

Zverev, ranked No. 2, defended his team in a press conference, emphasizing the caliber of his opponent, saying, “Novak is the best player ever statistically, and I pushed him to four sets. I’m not sure what more people expect,” per Tennis.com. He dismissed Becker’s call for a coaching overhaul, noting, “My dad and brother have got me to where I am. I’m not changing what works,” per The Tennis Gazette. Zverev’s frustration was compounded by Djokovic’s tactical use of 35 drop shots, exposing his deep baseline positioning, per The Athletic, though he insisted his strategy was sound, hitting 42 winners despite the loss, per Infosys Stats.

The exchange highlights ongoing scrutiny of Zverev’s big-match mentality, with Becker’s critique echoing sentiments on X, like @UnfilterTennis’s claim that Zverev “mentally checked out,” while Zverev’s retort underscores his loyalty to his family-led setup as he prepares for the grass season at Halle.[]