“I’m convinced he can become world number one”: Boris Becker softens tone after Alexander Zverev criticism
Tennis legend Boris Becker has softened his stance on Alexander Zverev, expressing confidence in the German star’s potential to reach World No. 1, following a public spat that sparked headlines. In a June 23, 2025, interview with *ntv.de*, Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion, said, “I’m convinced he can become world number one,” a marked shift from his earlier critique of Zverev’s mentality. The comments, reported by @dw_sports and @tennis365com on X, come as Zverev, currently No. 3, prepares for Wimbledon, starting June 30, 2025, aiming to build on his strong 2025 season.
The tension began when Becker, in a June 2025 *Eurosport* analysis, questioned Zverev’s ability to handle pressure in big moments, suggesting he lacked the mental edge to win a Grand Slam. Zverev, stung by the remarks, responded defiantly after his Stuttgart Open final loss to Taylor Fritz on June 15, saying, “When things go bad, everyone becomes an expert,” per @MSports_all on X. The exchange escalated when Becker doubled down, but his latest comments reflect a desire to mend fences. “I’m on his side. I want him to win,” Becker clarified, emphasizing his belief in Zverev’s talent and potential to emulate his own 1985 Wimbledon triumph at age 17.[](https://x.com/MSports_all/status/1935392402019336564)[](https://x.com/TennisUpToDate2/status/1937888631739294058)
Zverev’s 2025 season has been impressive, with a 35-13 record, a Munich title, and an Australian Open final appearance, though he fell short against Jannik Sinner. His grass-court campaign showed promise, reaching the Stuttgart final (l. to Fritz, 6-3, 7-6(7-0)) and Halle semifinals (l. to Daniil Medvedev, 6-4, 6-3). Despite never advancing past Wimbledon’s fourth round, Zverev remains optimistic, humorously assuring a fan in Stuttgart, “I’ll win Wimbledon, don’t worry,” as noted by @TennisFanDE. However, off-court challenges loom, including a potential tax burden on Wimbledon earnings, with German players facing dual UK and German taxes, per *Express.co.uk* on June 24, 2025.
Becker’s endorsement highlights Zverev’s physical and technical strengths—his 6’6” frame, powerful serve, and baseline consistency—while urging mental growth. “He’s got everything, but he needs to believe in the clutch moments,” Becker said, per *tennis365.com*. Zverev, who attended Becker’s WorldChanger Days event in Austria on June 22–23, 2025, with girlfriend Sophia Thomalla, has shown resilience, balancing charity work for his diabetes foundation with tour demands.[](https://x.com/tennis365com/status/1937862089500217676)
As Zverev eyes a Wimbledon breakthrough, Becker’s shift from critic to supporter could boost his confidence, though fans on X remain divided, with some praising Becker’s olive branch and others skeptical of Zverev’s Grand Slam prospects. With Carlos Alcaraz and Sinner as top rivals, Zverev’s path to No. 1 hinges on capitalizing on his current form
