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Opinion

Why Alexander Zverev is now far more likely to win another Grand Slam than Novak Djokovic

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Alexander Zverev came painfully close to claiming another Grand Slam title yesterday, but was outclassed in the end by Jannik Sinner.

However, even before that Wimbledon final had got underway, many heralded the German star for maintaining his sensational form after Roland Garros.

In Paris, he had claimed his much-awaited maiden major title, and therefore entered the All England Club free from pressure.

This was evident in his play throughout the two weeks, as he strolled to the final, and even stole the first set from Sinner too.

If there is any conclusion to be taken from Alexander Zverev’s performance over the last month or two, it’s that his chances of winning another Grand Slam title are only getting greater.

Alexander Zverev will win another Grand Slam title

Zverev has always been considered a threat for major titles, with his huge serve and impressively consistent all-around game more than enough to make him a contender.

And yet, his faltering mentality provided a barrier that many feared he might never overcome.

How many more Grand Slams does Alexander Zverev win now?

What a final!

Having done so in Paris, it was clear that such a momentous moment in his career was paving the way for a new style.

Zverev has leant into a more aggressive mindset whilst on court, and throughout the last two weeks, his forehand looked revolutionised.

He was able to stay toe-to-toe with Sinner throughout the final, and only when Zverev slipped in the third set did he finally seem to fade.

After these last two Grand Slam appearances, it seems hard to bet against him maybe adding another to his trophy cabinet.

Novak Djokovic’s chances of a 25th Grand Slam title are decreasing

Whilst it feels like Zverev’s chances of winning more majors are only increasing, Novak Djokovic’s are arguably going in the opposite direction.

After all, with Alcaraz’s planned return date having now been revealed, this is expected to be the last Grand Slam with him absent.

Novak Djokovic would be the undisputed GOAT if he won Grand Slam number 25 – could anyone argue otherwise?

“I think if he’s healthy, I think he still has a shot. I think he’s still in that conversation with those guys, but it’s clear, I guess, especially against Sinner, that it’s been pretty difficult for him.”

– Jim Courier

“He is the best of all time without any doubt. But even the way he expresses it makes me feel that he doesn’t believe he can.”

– Patrick Mouratoglou

“As time goes on, even he, you would think it would get tougher for, but this is going to get a whole lot tougher.”

– John McEnroe

That means that Djokovic will have to once again contend with him and Sinner, and an ever-improving Zverev as well.

And that’s before even considering the ever-improving rank of young stars like Joao Fonseca, Rafael Jodar and Jakub Mensik.

Having failed to win Roland Garros or Wimbledon without Alcaraz present, it does feel like Djokovic’s big opportunity has now gone.