Alexander Zverev Jokes About Frances Tiafoe’s Athletic Skills: “He’s So Untalented”
German tennis star Alexander Zverev recently took a playful jab at Frances Tiafoe, despite acknowledging him as one of the most talented players on the ATP Tour.
During an interview on Tennis Channel, Zverev was asked to assemble an ATP basketball starting five but quickly ruled out Tiafoe:
“I’m not putting Frances Tiafoe. Have you seen his shot?” Zverev joked, referring to Tiafoe’s basketball skills.
The German elaborated, laughing:
“I do not understand how someone can be so talented on the tennis court but so untalented at everything else. It’s phenomenal.”
Zverev then shared some lighthearted moments from past encounters:
“He can’t throw a football, he can’t shoot a basketball. One time in Rome, we tried kicking soccer balls during a rain delay—he fell and hit his head on the floor!”
Despite the teasing, Zverev emphasized his admiration for Tiafoe:
“I love him, no offense! He’s one of the most gifted tennis players I’ve ever seen.”
Zverev’s ATP Tour Basketball Starting Five
Zverev also shared his top five ATP players he’d pick for a basketball team:
- Nick Kyrgios – “Best on tour.”
- Chris Eubanks – “He plays great basketball.”
- Thanasi Kokkinakis
- Reilly Opelka – “For size.”
- Himself – “If I can say that.”
Zverev Focused on Miami Open Success
Beyond the jokes, Zverev is on a mission in Miami. As the No. 2 player in the world, he has a chance to close in on the ATP top spot with Jannik Sinner currently suspended.
Zverev’s next match in the Miami Masters 1000 will be against Arthur Fils in the Round of 16. If he advances, he could face Jakub Mensik next.
