Alexander Zverev has described his recovery process as he looks to return from the injury that ended his fight for the French Open in June. 

The world number two has not played since tearing ligaments in his right ankle in a moment that Zverev feared could end his career during a tight semi-final with Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros.

Now, Zverev has given insight into the sorts of work he is doing to be fighting fit back on the court.

“The healing process is going very well,” he told Eurosport. “I’m making important progress every day and I’m looking forward to the next tasks that will bring me closer and closer to the tennis court.

“An exact date for a comeback hasn’t been set yet, but I’m working every day to make sure it happens as soon as possible.”

The US Open would be an obvious target for the 25-year-old, but that is likely to be too soon, especially given Zverev’s mindset.

“I don’t want to play US Open to play the first round and then fly home and take the experience with me,” he told Sky Deutschland. “I want to play US Open so I have a chance to go far there and compete with the best players. I can only do that if I’m completely healed.”

Speaking specifically on rehabilitation exercises, Zverev told Eurosport: “The days are very long. You start very early and finish in the evening. We do a lot of exercises, there are always new ones that are added permanently.

“The foot is treated, mobility is worked out, strength and stability are rebuilt. In some cases, normal walking and running are re-learned. I do sprint exercises in the water, training sessions on the treadmill and bicycle.

“I have to listen very carefully to my body and know when I have reached my limits. I’m used to getting the maximum out of myself almost every day, whether in training or matches. Exceeding it now could be counterproductive.”