In a moment that’s igniting both debate and reflection across the tennis world, former world No. 1 and U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick has come forward in defense of Alexander Zverev, declaring him “the best player in the world who hasn’t won a Grand Slam.” His words have added depth and empathy to the often one-sided criticism directed at the 28-year-old German star, who continues to chase that elusive first major title.
A Career Overshadowed by “Almosts”
Zverev, currently ranked No. 3 in the world, has faced repeated heartbreak on tennis’s biggest stages. Despite his impressive consistency on the ATP Tour and his reputation as one of the most physically gifted players of his generation, Zverev has fallen short in three Grand Slam finals—the US Open, the French Open, and the Australian Open.
Most recently, he exited the 2025 French Open in the quarterfinals, once again stopped by the relentless force of Novak Djokovic. Just days later, he suffered a stinging loss in the final of the ATP 250 tournament in Stuttgart, further fueling public frustration over his inability to “close the deal” in key moments.
Roddick Steps In: “Let’s Not Undermine His Greatness”
Amid this growing pressure, Andy Roddick made headlines by defending Zverev on a recent podcast appearance, reminding fans and media alike that greatness cannot be measured by Grand Slam titles alone.
“Zverev is, without question, the best active player who hasn’t won a major,” Roddick said. “People forget what it takes just to stay in the top five year after year. That alone is elite company.”
Roddick, who himself won the 2003 US Open and knows the weight of expectations at the top of the sport, praised Zverev for his resilience, especially after a devastating ankle injury at the 2022 French Open that kept him sidelined and threatened to derail his career permanently.
“He came back from that injury when some people weren’t sure he’d even be the same,” Roddick noted. “And he’s not just back—he’s competing, he’s pushing the very best.”
A Storm from Within: Coach’s Profanity-Laced Critique Goes Viral
The public pressure surrounding Zverev intensified recently when his own coach lashed out on a podcast, calling him a derogatory name and questioning his mental toughness. The remarks shocked fans and sparked a wave of controversy online, with many debating whether the comment was intended as motivational tough love or a step too far in public criticism.
While Zverev hasn’t publicly responded to his coach’s outburst, insiders say the German star has remained focused on preparation for the upcoming ATP 500 event in Halle, where he’ll face World No. 43 Marcos Giron in the opening round.
A Legacy Still Being Written
Despite his struggles on the biggest stages, Zverev’s résumé remains impressive: an Olympic gold medalist, ATP Finals champion, and a mainstay in the world’s top 10 rankings. But in a sport where legends are often defined by major titles, the absence of a Grand Slam win continues to cast a shadow.
Still, Andy Roddick believes the narrative needs to change.
“We’re so quick to label players as failures because they haven’t done what Federer or Nadal did,” Roddick said. “But those guys are the exception, not the rule. Zverev’s career is already a success—he’s just waiting on that last piece.”
As Zverev prepares for his next challenge, the question remains: Will 2025 be the year he finally breaks through, silences the critics, and lifts a Grand Slam trophy? Or will the pressure continue to mount?
For now, one thing is clear—he’s not fighting alone.
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