Alexander Zverev is finally ready to claim the Grand Slam title he has long coveted, says Greg Rusedski, a former Major finalist. The former British tennis player believes that the 29-year-old German now has all the conditions to win the final of Roland Garros against the surprising Italian Flavio Cobolli, who reached the final after the withdrawal of his compatriot Matteo Arnaldi.
Zverev secured his place in the final with a convincing victory over Czech Jakub Mensik, winning 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, and 6-3, although he showed signs of physical fatigue after an intense campaign. The young Italian Cobolli benefited from Arnaldi’s withdrawal due to illness, which paved his way to the final this Sunday.
This is a golden opportunity for Zverev, who was previously a runner-up at the US Open 2020, Roland Garros 2024, and the Australian Open 2025, but has yet to lift the major trophy. The particularly painful defeat against Dominic Thiem in New York, where he led by two sets and a break before succumbing, still lingers in the German’s memory.
With the surprising eliminations of world number one Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, Zverev now emerges as the clear favorite for the title. Rusedski, on his podcast “Off Court with Greg,” highlighted the German’s evolution throughout the year, emphasizing his historic closeness to defeating names like Carlos Alcaraz or Sinner at crucial moments.
“I’m impressed with Zverev because, throughout the year, he was constantly dominated by Sinner in the finals. But he has grown a lot,” said the former British player. “In the last edition of the Australian Open, he was two points away from defeating Alcaraz, serving for the match at 5-3. If he had done that, the narrative about the Spaniard’s invincible start would be different. Now, this is his big moment. He has already lost finals, he has been through everything, and I feel that this time he will succeed.”
Rusedski also emphasized the importance of Zverev’s mentality and emotional control for this decisive match: “The tactical aspect will be crucial, especially against a Cobolli who had an easier path to the final, thanks to Arnaldi’s withdrawal. All the weight is on Zverev’s shoulders because it’s now or never. If he can stay calm and manage the pressure, I believe he will be the winner.”
The head-to-head record between the two is tied at one win each this year: Cobolli won in Munich, while Zverev triumphed in Madrid. However, Rusedski believes that the German’s experience and maturity will make the difference in a match that could extend to four or five sets.
“This Zverev has more time and knows how to manage long matches better. If he doesn’t win this time, it will be a very hard blow, but I feel that he has matured and this is his moment,” he emphasized.
In addition to his talent, Zverev’s commitment to innovating his game has been crucial. The tennis player spent time at Rafael Nadal’s academy, seeking to learn from the experience of the Spaniard and his uncle Tony Nadal, in a clear attempt to give a new boost to his career.
“He has been incredibly consistent, despite the tough competition from Alcaraz and Sinner. Last year, he realized he needed something different and sought inspiration where no one expected,” explained Rusedski. “He could have given up, but he continues to knock on the door of major titles, always with perseverance and determination.”
For the former Grand Slam finalist, Zverev’s victory at Roland Garros would be a well-deserved reward for his effort and resilience: “I would love to see him lift that trophy because I know everything he has gone through to get here. This is the moment to make history.”
The final of the Paris tournament promises an exciting duel between Zverev’s experience and ambition and the boldness of young Italian Cobolli, in a battle that could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the German tennis player’s career.
NOW YOU CAN FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – HERE
Discover more from Apito Final
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
