Zverev Considers Therapy After Wimbledon Defeat

LONDON: Following his unexpected first-round exit at Wimbledon, Alexander Zverev expressed that he may require ‘therapy’ to address his mental state, as reported by international media sources on Wednesday.

Zverev, the world number three, suffered a five-set loss to Arthur Rinderknech of France, making him the highest-seeded male player to be eliminated in the first round of Wimbledon on Tuesday.

The match between Zverev and Rinderknech was halted on Monday with the score tied at one set each. Upon resumption, the French player clinched a 7-6(3), 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-4 victory.

This marks Zverev’s first loss in the opening round of a Grand Slam tournament since Wimbledon in 2019.

The German player acknowledged his mental struggles and the need to resolve off-court issues.

Zverev’s Statement

“I often feel very isolated on the court. I’m dealing with mental challenges, which I’ve mentioned since the Australian Open. I’m unsure how to escape this cycle. I keep relapsing,” Zverev stated.

“I generally feel very alone and lonely… It’s an unfamiliar and unpleasant feeling.

“I don’t believe tennis is my primary concern right now. There’s something else I need to find within myself. It’s hard to explain because I currently lack the answers.”

Zverev has faced various off-field challenges in recent years. Although he previously managed to dismiss these distractions, he admitted on Tuesday that they have affected his performance and that counselling might be necessary to regain his mental equilibrium.

“It might be the first time in my life that I need therapy. I’ve encountered many difficulties, but I’ve never felt this empty. I lack joy in everything I do,” Zverev confessed.

“It’s not just about tennis; I also lack joy outside of tennis. Even when I win, I don’t experience the happiness I once did.

“That feeling is absent for me right now, which is a new experience in my life.”