Tennis has always been a family affair for Alexander Zverev. His parents, Alexander Zverev Sr. and Irina Zvereva, are both professional tennis coaches, and his elder brother, Mischa, is also a former ATP player.
This strong familial support system has played a crucial role in shaping his career, providing him with expert training and unwavering encouragement. As Zverev prepares for another significant milestone in his journey, let’s take a closer look at the two people who have been instrumental in his success.
Born in 1997 to Russian parents, Zverev was introduced to tennis at an early age. His father, a former Soviet tennis player, and his mother, a skilled professional in her own right, moved to Germany after the collapse of the Soviet Union. They dedicated themselves to training their son, with his mother guiding him in his initial years before his father took over coaching duties. Their expertise laid a solid foundation for Zverev’s development, shaping him into one of the most promising players of his generation.
Alexander Zverev Sr. had a modest professional career, reaching a career-high ranking of No. 175 in the 1980s and representing the Soviet Union in the Davis Cup. While he never won a Grand Slam match, he gained valuable experience playing at the Australian Open and French Open. His wife, Irina, achieved a career-high ranking of 380 but found success on the ITF circuit, winning the Bergisch Gladbach title in 1993. Today, she plays a vital role in her son’s life, managing his nutrition and overall well-being.
The bond between Zverev and his parents extends beyond coaching. Unlike many parent-coach relationships that turn contentious, theirs has remained harmonious. Zverev has often praised his father as one of the best trainers in the world, acknowledging the positive dynamic they share on and off the court. Even when his parents couldn’t attend his 2020 US Open final due to COVID-19, he made sure to dedicate his performance to them. With their continued support, the question remains: Can Alexander Zverev finally break his Grand Slam curse and claim his first major title?
