LONDON — German tennis star Alexander Zverev has revealed he is considering taking a break from professional tennis and seeking therapy after an emotional confession about his mental health struggles following his recent Wimbledon exit. The 27-year-old, who reached the semifinals at the All England Club, admitted he has been battling intense pressure and emotional exhaustion.
Zverev, currently ranked No. 4 in the world, made the revelation in a post-match press conference after his four-set loss to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. "I need to take a step back and evaluate my mental state," he said. "Tennis has been my life, but right now, I feel like I’m not enjoying it the way I should."
The Breaking Point
Zverev’s admission comes after a grueling 2024 season, marked by both on-court success and personal challenges. Earlier this year, he won the Italian Open and reached the French Open final, but the emotional toll of maintaining peak performance has weighed heavily on him. "I’ve been pushing myself to the limit, and it’s catching up with me," he confessed.
The German star has faced multiple setbacks in recent years, including a career-threatening ankle injury at the 2022 French Open and an ongoing legal battle over domestic abuse allegations, which he has repeatedly denied. Experts suggest these factors may have contributed to his current mental fatigue.
Therapy and Time Off?
Zverev acknowledged that therapy could be a necessary step. "I’ve always believed in being strong mentally, but sometimes you have to admit when you need help," he said. "I’m considering taking a short break to reset."
His coach, former world No. 2 Sergi Bruguera, has reportedly encouraged him to prioritize his well-being. "Sascha gives everything on the court, but even champions need to recharge," Bruguera told reporters.
Key Factors Behind Zverev’s Struggles
Several elements may have contributed to Zverev’s emotional state:
- The pressure of maintaining top-five status while younger rivals like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner rise.
- The lingering effects of his 2022 injury, which required surgery and months of rehab.
- The unresolved legal case, which has been a constant distraction.
- The physical demands of the ATP Tour, with little downtime between majors.
Reactions from the Tennis World
Fellow players have expressed support for Zverev’s openness. Novak Djokovic, a longtime advocate for mental health in sports, said, "It takes courage to admit when you’re struggling. The tour can be brutal, and we all need breaks."
Andy Murray, who has faced his own career-threatening injuries, added, "I’ve been there. The mental side is just as important as the physical. If he needs time, he should take it."
What’s Next for Zverev?
Zverev has not confirmed whether he will skip the upcoming North American hardcourt swing, including the US Open. However, sources close to his team suggest he may take a few weeks off before making a decision. "Health comes first," said his agent, Patricio Apey. "We’ll support whatever he needs."
If Zverev does step away temporarily, he would join a growing list of athletes prioritizing mental health, including Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles. His honesty could further destigmatize the conversation around athletes’ psychological well-being.
Conclusion
Alexander Zverev’s emotional confession highlights the immense pressures faced by elite athletes. While his talent has kept him at the top of the sport, his willingness to acknowledge his struggles may be just as impactful. Whether he takes a short break or continues competing, his openness serves as a reminder that even champions need time to heal.
"Tennis will always be there," Zverev said. "But right now, I need to focus on being okay."