Boris Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion, has enthusiastically endorsed Alexander Zverev’s potential collaboration with Toni Nadal, the former coach of Rafael Nadal, following Zverev’s training sessions at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca. In his *Becker Petkovic* podcast, Becker called the move a “top choice,” stating, “If it’s true that Toni Nadal is Sascha Zverev’s new coach, then he’s done everything right.” The speculation arose after videos and photos surfaced on social media, showing Zverev training under Toni’s guidance, prompting excitement about a possible long-term partnership.[
Becker highlighted Toni’s proven track record, noting that he “knows how to win Grand Slams,” having guided Rafael Nadal to 16 of his 22 Major titles. He emphasized the value of Toni’s experience and the disciplined, intense “Spanish school” of tennis, which demands punctuality and respect for the sport. Becker warned, however, that this approach would be a “very tough school” for Zverev, indicating a challenging but potentially transformative shift.
The German star’s interest in Toni comes after a disappointing 2025 season, marked by a first-round Wimbledon loss to Arthur Rinderknech (7-6(7), 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-4) and a French Open quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic. Zverev, still seeking his first Grand Slam title despite reaching finals at the 2020 US Open, 2024 French Open, and 2025 Australian Open, has struggled with consistency. Becker suggested that Toni’s rigorous methods, combined with potential mentorship from Rafael Nadal, could be the catalyst Zverev needs. “If Rafael Nadal talks about tennis, then Sascha Zverev has to listen,” Becker said, underscoring the value of Rafael’s insights as a 22-time Grand Slam champion.[]
Zverev, primarily coached by his father, Alexander Sr., and occasionally his brother Mischa, has previously worked with high-profile coaches like Ivan Lendl, Juan Carlos Ferrero, David Ferrer, and Sergi Bruguera, but these partnerships were short-lived. Becker, who earlier in 2025 criticized Zverev’s coaching setup after his Roland Garros loss, believes a new voice like Toni’s could push Zverev past the “last step” to a Major title.[]
While no official confirmation of the partnership has been made, Becker’s enthusiasm reflects the tennis world’s anticipation. Zverev, who withdrew from the Swiss Open Gstaad to focus on upcoming Masters events, is expected to clarify his coaching situation ahead of the Canadian Open on July 26. A collaboration with Toni Nadal could provide the discipline and strategic edge needed to elevate Zverev’s game, particularly as he aims for a breakthrough at the US Open.
