Jimmy Connors believes that Alexander Zverev has an “obligation” to play like a two-time Grand Slam champion amid criticism of the new No 1.
Zverev won the French Open and the US Open for his maiden majors in 2026 but the 29-year-old has been criticised for his 3-9 head-to-head record against the top 10 this year and for not living up to his new ranking.
The German has benefitted from Carlos Alcaraz missing more than four months with a knee injury this year, while Jannik Sinner has been out with a knee problem since mid-July.
After the 6ft 6in player’s early loss to Lorenzo Musetti at the Paris Masters, Zverev said, “Achieving the world No 1 status is something that I think every player dreams of, but then I feel like I’m the only world No 1 in tennis history that has to explain why it’s okay for me to be world No 1.
“I find it quite difficult because I think I deserve to be where I am, even though I lost today. I don’t think anybody had to explain themselves as much as I had to do in the last couple of days, which for me, is annoying, to be honest.”
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After the weekend’s results in Basel and Vienna, where Zverev lost a tight three-setter to Alex De Minaur, former world No 1 Connors is hopeful the big German won’t rest on his laurels and be content with his two major triumphs.
He said on Advantage Connors, “As happy as I am for Zverev and the way he played. He has an obligation now, to the game and to himself to play like a two-time Grand Slam champion. Every time.
“I am saying that from the heart. I like him. I had the opportunity to give him the trophy at the US Open, that was pretty amazing and thrilling.
“I hope he doesn’t let down to the point of being satisfied. That he has got two now, go for three. Get three, go for four. As long as you are in the game and playing the game at this level, be in it to be a Grand Slam champion. And I hope he does.”
Eight-time Grand Slam winner Connors is known as one of tennis’ greatest-ever competitors. If Zverev can take a leaf out of the American’s book there, he could add to his slam haul.
