Alexander Zverev opens up on the gap to Alcaraz and Sinner ahead of 2026 season

During his pre-tournament press conference, Zverev explained that ongoing physical issues and injuries heavily influenced his year, making his final ranking something he still views with pride. He noted that while he fell short of his own expectations in terms of trophies — particularly the biggest ones — finishing third in the world under such circumstances remained a significant achievement.

Zverev also acknowledged that Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have pulled clear at the top of the rankings, something that contrasts with the end of 2024, when he finished as world number two. Still, he believes the gap is not unique to him, pointing out that much of the tour faces the same challenge in trying to close in on the sport’s current leaders.

How Wimbledon helped reset Zverev’s season

The German revealed that his first-round defeat to Arthur Rinderknech at Wimbledon proved to be a crucial turning point. After struggling mentally during the middle portion of the season, the early exit unexpectedly gave him a four-week window away from competition — time he used to reset both physically and mentally.

Zverev described taking a short break with friends, adjusting his training environment and treating the period as a mini off-season, something he believes played a key role in stabilising his form for the remainder of the year. Although he would never choose to lose at Wimbledon, he admitted the enforced pause helped him restart and regain focus.

Zverev’s United Cup campaign will begin against Tallon Griekspoor, whom he currently leads 8–2 in their head-to-head meetings.