“Don’t know how willing Alexander Zverev is to change” – Ex-World No. 1 gives verdict on German’s potential partnership with Rafael Nadal’s uncle Toni
Former WTA world No. 1 Dinara Safina has issued a candid warning to Alexander Zverev regarding his potential coaching partnership with Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, emphasizing that the German’s success hinges on his willingness to embrace change. Speaking on a Russian podcast on July 31, 2025, Safina stated, “It will be exciting to watch. Toni is very straightforward. I do not know how willing Alexander is to change and integrate someone else into his team. We will see. It seems to me that a lot will depend on Alexander in this collaboration, on his willingness to change, listen and try new things.”
Zverev, the world No. 3, sparked speculation about a collaboration with Toni Nadal after spending 10 days training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca following a first-round Wimbledon loss in 2025. The connection began with a lengthy voice message from Toni, leading to an hour-and-a-half phone call about tennis and life, followed by Zverev’s visit to Spain. “I went there, I saw him and it was an amazing 10 days,” Zverev told ATPTour.com. “I’m trying to convince him to do more weeks with me, but he’s a very busy man.” Toni, who coached Rafael to 16 of his 22 Grand Slam titles, is currently the director of the Mallorca ATP 250 and a frequent speaker, limiting his availability for a full-time role.
Safina’s comments highlight the challenge Zverev faces in adapting his game and mindset. Despite a stellar career with 24 ATP titles, including two Nitto ATP Finals, and a 498-212 win-loss record, Zverev has yet to win a Grand Slam, losing three finals, including the 2025 Australian Open to Jannik Sinner and the 2024 French Open to Carlos Alcaraz. His emotional candor post-Wimbledon, admitting to feeling “very alone” and struggling mentally since the Australian Open, underscored his need for a fresh approach. Toni’s no-nonsense coaching style, praised by Safina, could address these gaps, but only if Zverev is open to evolving, particularly in managing his second serve and double faults, noted weaknesses despite improvements.
Zverev, who primarily works with his father, Alexander Sr., and has had brief stints with coaches like Ivan Lendl and David Ferrer, expressed enthusiasm for Toni’s insights, saying, “When he speaks and when Rafa speaks, you listen.” At the 2025 Canadian Open, where he’s the top seed, Zverev defeated Adam Walton (7-6(6), 6-4) and faces Matteo Arnaldi next, aiming to apply lessons from Mallorca. While Toni’s commitments may delay a formal partnership, Safina’s warning underscores that Zverev’s ability to integrate new strategies will determine whether this collaboration unlocks his elusive Grand Slam potential.
