Why Roger Federer once doubted Alexander Zverev’s ability to win Grand Slams as he becomes US Open champion

In 2024, Alexander Zverev claimed his second Grand Slam title at the US Open, besting Ben Shelton in the final. Despite this achievement, there were lingering doubts about Zverev's ability to secure Grand Slam victories. Earlier this year, during an interview ahead of the 2024 Laver Cup, tennis legend Roger Federer pointed out several reasons why Zverev had yet to win a major title.

Federer suggested that Zverev's play was "far too passive" and "defensive" in crucial moments, which he believed was essential for winning against the top players in the world. To win a Grand Slam, Federer emphasized, a player must have unwavering trust in their shots and approach the game more offensively, believing that it is the only right way to victory.

Zverev acknowledged Federer's comments, stating that his performance that day was subpar and that Federer's observations were accurate. The US Open final was a testament to Zverev's resilience, as he had been expected to reach the semifinals against Taylor Fritz, who ultimately topped the match. Zverev's inability to advance to the semifinals became a recurring theme throughout his time at the Grand Slam level, leading many to label him the "greatest player to have never won a major".

However, in the 2026 season, Zverev won 24 ATP titles, including two ATP Finals crowns, an Olympic gold medal, and seven Masters 1000s, but still failed to win a Grand Slam. Throughout his career, Zverev had lost to top players like Dominic Thiem, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals, semi-finals, and finals of various tournaments.

In the 2026 Australian Open, Zverev's chance to silence his critics arrived when Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz both exited the tournament early, leaving him as the favorite for the title. He defeated Flavio Cobolli in the final to become the first man to win a Grand Slam title after being shut out in the main draws. The advice from Federer may not have been the sole factor in Zverev's US Open victory, but it highlighted the importance of a more aggressive playing style.

As Zverev enters the 2027 Australian Open, his success at the other Grand Slams suggests he could be a strong contender for the title once again.