# Alexander Zverev warns of ankle pain risk after tough Shanghai Masters win

- URL: https://apitofinal.pt/en/modalidades-en/tenis-en/alexander-zverev-warns-of-ankle-pain-risk-after-tough-shanghai-masters-win/
- Published: 2026-10-15T09:25:09+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-20T17:28:48+00:00
- Publisher: Apito Final (apitofinal.pt)
- Section: Ténis
- Tags: Alexander Bublik, Alexander Zverev, Andy Murray, ATP Tour, Shanghai Masters, tennis

## Key points

- Zverev beat Alexander Bublik to reach the Shanghai Masters final despite worsening ankle pain.
- He said he had never retired from a match except at the 2022 Roland Garros, and wants to keep that record.
- Experts warn that competing while injured could jeopardise his longevity, advising withdrawal from upcoming tournaments.

## Article

Alexander Zverev’s Battle at Shanghai Raises Alarming Concerns Over Injury Management

Alexander Zverev secured a hard-fought victory against Alexander Bublik to advance to the Shanghai Masters final, but troubling signs suggest his physical condition may be deteriorating. The German star, who suffered a fall during his opening round against Wu Yibing, revealed post-match that his ankle injury is worsening as the tournament progresses.

“I started to feel my ankle last match. During warm-up it felt good, and at the beginning of the first set I was fine,” Zverev explained after his win. “But as the match went on, especially in the middle of the second set, it started to get worse. I’ve never retired from a match in my life except at the 2022 Roland Garros when I literally couldn’t walk. I want to keep that record going. I don’t want to retire without reason. I fought through it and won, so I’m happy about that.”

Zverev’s determined fight to claim the ATP Tour’s world No. 1 ranking echoes the path taken by Andy Murray in 2016. Murray capitalised on injuries to Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic to reach the top spot and finish the year as No. 1. Similarly, Zverev has been confirmed as the next world No. 1 amidst Jannik Sinner's injury struggles, an achievement that cements his status among tennis elite.

However, the parallels also carry a stark warning. Murray’s relentless push through pain and exhaustion during his ascension is widely believed to have contributed to the chronic injuries that plagued his later career. Zverev risks repeating the same mistake by allowing his body to endure further strain in pursuit of maintaining his new status.

Critics have questioned the legitimacy of Zverev’s No. 1 ranking due to Sinner’s absence, but his credentials as a two-time Grand Slam champion are undeniable. Moreover, unlike Murray, Zverev faces no immediate pressure to defend ranking points before year’s end, allowing strategic flexibility.

Experts caution that despite Zverev’s admirable grit, persisting with competition while injured could jeopardise his longevity at the top. Should he progress beyond the Shanghai Masters, a prudent withdrawal from upcoming tournaments such as the Six Kings Slam and the Vienna Open is strongly advised to safeguard his health.

Maintaining the world No. 1 position demands not only skill but also smart management of physical wellbeing. Entering the 2027 season compromised by injury would undermine Zverev’s capacity to hold the summit of men’s tennis. His recent comments and visible discomfort serve as a stark reminder: pushing beyond limits can come at a devastating cost.