LONDON — Alexander Zverev, the German tennis star and former world No. 2, has revealed he is considering therapy after a devastating first-round exit at Wimbledon, where he fell to unseeded Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in a grueling five-set match. The 27-year-old, who has been open about his mental health struggles in the past, admitted the loss has left him questioning his approach to the sport.
Zverev, a two-time ATP Finals champion and Olympic gold medalist, entered Wimbledon with high expectations after reaching the semifinals at the French Open last month. However, his campaign ended abruptly with a 6-3, 6-4, 4-6, 6-7(5), 6-3 defeat to Rinderknech, marking his earliest Grand Slam exit since 2019. "I don’t know what’s wrong with me right now," Zverev confessed in a post-match press conference. "I need to figure things out, maybe with professional help."
A Shocking Early Exit
Zverev’s loss to Rinderknech, ranked No. 76 in the world, stunned fans and analysts alike. The German struggled with uncharacteristic errors, particularly on his usually reliable serve, double-faulting 12 times. Despite rallying to force a fifth set, Zverev appeared emotionally drained in the decider, losing his serve twice. "I felt empty out there," he admitted. "It’s not just about tennis—it’s deeper than that."
This isn’t the first time Zverev has spoken about mental health challenges. In 2022, he took a brief hiatus from the tour after suffering a severe ankle injury at the French Open. He later revealed he had struggled with depression during his recovery. "Coming back was harder than I expected," he said at the time. "I felt like I was fighting myself more than my opponents."
Therapy on the Table
Zverev’s latest comments suggest he’s seriously considering professional support to address his mental hurdles. "I’ve always believed I could handle everything on my own," he said. "But maybe it’s time to admit I need help. Talking to someone could be the next step." His openness has been praised by peers, including Andy Murray, who has long advocated for mental health awareness in sports.
The pressures of elite tennis, combined with Zverev’s off-court legal battles—he is currently facing domestic abuse allegations, which he denies—have taken a toll. A recent study by the ATP found that:
- Over 30% of professional players experience anxiety or depression during their careers
- Nearly 50% report sleep disturbances due to stress
- Only 20% seek professional help, often due to stigma
Zverev’s willingness to discuss therapy could help normalize the conversation. "If someone like Sascha [Zverev] says it’s okay to ask for help, that’s huge," said fellow player Casper Ruud. "We’re all human, no matter how many titles we win."
What’s Next for Zverev?
Despite the setback, Zverev remains committed to the season. He is scheduled to compete in the Hamburg Open later this month, a tournament he has won twice. However, he hinted he may take a short break to regroup. "I need to reset," he said. "Tennis isn’t going anywhere, but my health has to come first."
His coach, Sergi Bruguera, acknowledged the challenges ahead. "Sascha is one of the strongest competitors I’ve worked with, but everyone has limits," Bruguera said. "If he needs time, we’ll give him time."
A Broader Conversation
Zverev’s struggles highlight the intense psychological demands of professional tennis. Naomi Osaka, Simone Biles, and Ben Stokes have similarly stepped back from competition to prioritize mental well-being. Sports psychologist Dr. Leah Lagos noted, "Elite athletes often equate vulnerability with weakness, but acknowledging struggles is actually a sign of strength."
The ATP has recently expanded its mental health support programs, including:
- 24/7 access to licensed therapists
- Mandatory mental health education for players and coaches
- Anonymous hotlines for immediate support
Zverev’s candidness may encourage others to utilize these resources. "I hope my honesty helps someone else," he said. "No one should suffer in silence."
Conclusion
Alexander Zverev’s Wimbledon exit was a shock, but his openness about mental health could have a lasting impact. As he contemplates therapy, his journey underscores the importance of balancing athletic excellence with emotional well-being. "Titles come and go," he reflected. "But your health is forever."
The tennis world will be watching closely as Zverev navigates this chapter. Whether he returns stronger or takes an extended break, his courage in speaking out has already made a difference. For now, the focus is on healing—both on and off the court.