Tim Henman tells Alexander Zverev what he must change to win a Grand Slam after French Open defeat
Tim Henman’s Advice to Alexander Zverev After French Open 2025 Defeat
Following Alexander Zverev’s 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 loss to Novak Djokovic in the French Open 2025 quarter-finals on June 4, former British No. 1 Tim Henman offered pointed advice on what the German must change to finally claim a Grand Slam title. Speaking on TNT Sports, Henman praised Zverev’s strong start, where he secured the first set with an early break, but criticized his lack of fight as Djokovic turned the match around. “He’s talked at length about how he’s desperate to win one of these Grand Slams. He’s got to show more of the fight, that hunger and desire to show the fans how bad he wants it,” Henman said, noting Zverev’s performance became “pretty tame” after the first set.[](https://tennishead.net/tim-henman-tells-alexander-zverev-what-he-must-change-to-win-a-grand-slam-after-french-open-defeat/)
Henman emphasized that Zverev, ranked No. 3, must adopt a more aggressive mindset in critical moments to overcome top players like Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz. This echoes his earlier critiques, such as after Zverev’s 2024 US Open quarter-final loss to Taylor Fritz, where Henman told Sky Sports that Zverev’s passivity—relying on consistent serving and baseline rallying—cost him. “He has to be prepared to risk more, play closer to the baseline, and dominate opponents,” Henman advised, suggesting Zverev incorporate tactics like drop shots to disrupt rivals.[](https://www.thetennisgazette.com/news/tim-henman-knows-exactly-what-alexander-zverev-must-change-if-hes-ever-going-to-win-a-grand-slam-title/)
Zverev’s 2025 French Open run, where he dropped just one set before facing Djokovic, showcased his improved serving (80% first-serve accuracy) and athleticism, but his inability to sustain aggression against Djokovic’s 35 drop shots highlighted a tactical gap. Henman remains optimistic, stating on Sky Sports, “You would have to say it looks like when and not if he will win a Grand Slam now,” provided Zverev embraces a bolder approach. Despite reaching the 2020 US Open and 2024 French Open finals, Zverev’s pattern of faltering in big moments—losing two-set leads—persists, as seen in his 2024 Australian Open semi-final collapse against Daniil Medvedev.[]
Henman’s advice aligns with his belief in Zverev’s potential to join Sinner and Alcaraz as a 2025 major winner, predicting a breakthrough if he channels his hunger into proactive play. Zverev, reflecting on the loss, acknowledged the need to adapt, telling ATP Tour he aims to refine his game for future Slams.[]
