Boris Becker has publicly criticized Alexander Zverev for opening up about his mental health struggles, particularly following his first-round exit at Wimbledon 2025. The six-time Grand Slam champion, who considers Zverev his “sporting adopted son,” expressed his disapproval during an event in Germany, as reported by various tennis outlets. Becker advised that Zverev should not have shared such personal details during a press conference after his loss to Arthur Rinderknech, stating, “The ideal is not to open up to the world when one is eliminated in the first round of a Grand Slam.” He suggested that such vulnerability at a low moment might not be strategic, though he acknowledged it could have been a needed release, adding, “I am convinced that he will win his Grand Slam and that he can become number one at some point.”
This critique follows Zverev’s emotional admission after the match, where he revealed feeling “empty” and “very alone,” hinting at considering therapy for the first time. Becker’s stance contrasts with his earlier empathy, where he admitted to crying while watching Zverev’s press conference and reaching out to support him. The German legend’s comments have sparked debate, with some viewing his advice as practical given the competitive nature of tennis, while others see it as dismissive of mental health openness. Zverev, currently ranked No. 3, is set to return at the Canadian Open on July 27, 2025, where his response to this criticism—and his form—will be closely watched.
