“Kind of Slam or Bust,” Alexander Zverev’s Downfall Receives Brutal Scrutiny From American ATP Legend
“Slam or Bust”: Andy Roddick Weighs In on Alexander Zverev’s Struggles
Alexander Zverev’s rollercoaster season just took another dip—and tennis legend Andy Roddick isn’t sugarcoating it.
After a strong start to the year, including a run to the Australian Open final, Zverev’s form has slipped dramatically. His latest loss? A Round of 32 exit at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he fell to Matteo Berrettini in a tight three-set match: 2-6, 6-3, 5-7. That makes it six losses in his last 12 matches. Ouch.
Andy Roddick Keeps It Real
On the latest episode of his Served podcast, Roddick shared some tough-love insight:
“It’s kind of Slam or bust now. People don’t talk about his big wins—they talk about how he hasn’t won a Slam yet.”
The former US Open champ added that he understands the pressure all too well. “You can beat 126 of the best players in the world, and still all people ask is, ‘Why didn’t you win the big one?’ That leaves a mark.”
And it’s true—Zverev has been one of the most consistent players on the ATP Tour for the better part of a decade. He’s made three Grand Slam finals but still hasn’t hoisted a major trophy.
Is Jannik Sinner’s Absence a Factor?
Some thought Jannik Sinner being sidelined might ease the pressure. Not Roddick.
“I don’t think it’s about Sinner,” he said. “It looks more like Zverev’s trying to be more aggressive on the forehand, maybe trying too hard to prove he can win a Slam.”
Zverev Speaks Out: “I Have No Idea What’s Happening”
After the Berrettini loss, Zverev was blunt in his assessment:
“My level was terrible. I have no idea what’s happening to me right now. I’ve been trying to figure it out for months.”
It’s been a rough clay season—earlier this year, he had disappointing quarterfinal exits in both Buenos Aires and Rio. He even admitted this is his worst stretch since coming back from injury.
What’s Next?
Zverev is set to compete in Munich next week at the ATP 500 event on home soil. Will the comfort of playing in Germany spark a comeback?
Only time will tell—but one thing’s for sure: the pressure isn’t going anywhere.
🎾 Your Turn: Is Zverev Crumbling Under Pressure, or Just Not Built for Slam Moments?
Drop your thoughts in the comments! Let’s talk tennis.
