Alexander Zverev, the world No. 3, is making waves in the tennis world with a potential game-changing collaboration with Toni Nadal, the legendary coach who guided Rafael Nadal to 16 of his 22 Grand Slam titles. Following a disheartening first-round exit at Wimbledon 2025 against Arthur Rinderknech (7-6(7), 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-4), Zverev has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, sparking speculation about a long-term partnership. According to *ZDF Heute*, Zverev and Toni have begun a multi-day trial period, with discussions progressing toward a permanent coaching role, described as a “realistic option.”[]
The move comes at a critical juncture for Zverev, who, at 28, remains without a Grand Slam title despite reaching finals at the 2020 US Open, 2024 French Open, and 2025 Australian Open, where he lost to Jannik Sinner. His 2025 season has been underwhelming, with only one title on Munich’s red clay and a French Open quarter-final loss to Novak Djokovic. Post-Wimbledon, Zverev opened up about mental struggles, admitting to feeling “empty” and “alone,” prompting his withdrawal from the ATP 250 event in Gstaad to focus on this training stint. *Sky Sports Germany* reports suggest Toni could become his head coach, with Rafael Nadal, retired since November 2024, potentially serving as a mentor to bolster Zverev’s mental resilience, a key area Rafael previously identified as Zverev’s main barrier to a Major.[
Boris Becker has endorsed the collaboration, calling it a “top choice” on his *Becker Petkovic* podcast, but warned of the “very tough Spanish school” Toni employs, emphasizing discipline and humility. Zverev, primarily coached by his father, Alexander Sr., and brother Mischa, has cycled through coaches like Ivan Lendl and Juan Carlos Ferrero without lasting impact. Toni’s rigorous approach, proven with Rafael and briefly with Felix Auger-Aliassime (2021–2024), could provide the structure Zverev needs. Negotiations are ongoing regarding timing and finances, with clarity expected by the Canadian Open (July 26–August 7, 2025), where Zverev aims to refine his game ahead of the US Open.
While no official confirmation has been made, social media posts, including videos shared by @ilyza1002 on X, show Zverev training under Toni’s guidance, fueling excitement. Some, like @rancioruiz, question whether Zverev can handle Toni’s intense discipline, but the prospect of Rafael’s mentorship adds intrigue. This partnership could be the reset Zverev needs to challenge the “Sincaraz” dominance and finally claim a Grand Slam.
