Alexander Zverev is still searching for an elusive Grand Slam title – one that would set him apart from many of his contemporaries on the ATP Tour.
The German star, ranked third in the world, has reached three Grand Slam finals in his career so far, but has been unable to navigate his way over the final hurdle on all three occasions.
Zverev made his first major final at the 2020 US Open. Despite leading by two sets to love, Zverev eventually lost the contest to Dominic Thiem, 2–6, 4–6, 6–4, 6–3, 7–6.
Four years later, Zverev found himself back in a major final at the French Open. The German again lost in five sets, this time to Spanish superstar Carlos Alcaraz.
Almost 12 months ago, Zverev lost his third Slam final to Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Australian Open.
Will the German star finally win a Slam in 2026?
Greg Rusedski says Alexander Zverev is missing ‘intensity and drive’ in his bid to win a Grand Slam
As expressed by John McEnroe in 2025, Zverev may be the best player in ATP history to have never won a Grand Slam title.
Who will be the United Cup MVP? Anyone else? Let us know in the comments
Former British number one Greg Rusedski discussed the matter in his latest ‘Off Court with Greg’ podcast episode.
“I look at him [Zverev], he’s had an unbelievable career, he just hasn’t won that major,” Rusedski began.
“He talked about being two sets to one up at the French, the one in New York was the most painful, losing to Dominic Thiem. He has done exceptionally well, but again, he’s got to beat Alcaraz and Sinner back-to-back.
“He’s got to find solutions, ways to push through. It’s always second serve and forehand at the crunch time, can he actually push through those areas, and if he’s done, he’s in the mix.
“But also, he’s talked a little bit about losing that intensity and drive, and he needs to get that back.
“But the good news for him is he’s expecting a child with his girlfriend, when that happens, maybe that gives him the impetus or motivation for him to push on and win that major that he hasn’t done so far in his career. But it is a big ask with the big two [Alcaraz and Sinner].
Zverev has one of the most impressive resumes on the ATP Tour. The German has won seven Masters 1000 titles and two ATP Finals tournaments.
However, when his career has concluded, Zverev will be judged on the number of Grand Slams he has won due to the talent he possesses.
Will Alexander Zverev win his first Slam in 2026?
With Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner still dominating the Grand Slam scene, it is difficult to envisage anyone else capturing a major title this year.
Alcaraz and Sinner have dominated the Tour over the past two years, winning all eight Grand Slam tournaments combined.
Zverev certainly has the talent to win a Slam. However, he will likely need to beat both Sinner and Alcaraz to do so – something no player has achieved over the last 24 months.
Moreover, Zverev will be competing against Novak Djokovic, whose 2026 season may be his last chance at winning a 25th Grand Slam singles title.
Zverev began his 2026 season with victory against Tallon Griekspoor at the United Cup. However, he then lost to former world number six Hubert Hurkacz.
