Following a disappointing early exit at Wimbledon 2025, Alexander Zverev made headlines not just for his on-court struggles but also for the intrigue surrounding his coaching situation. The German star, currently ranked World No. 3, sparked considerable speculation after he traveled to Mallorca for a training block at the renowned Rafa Nadal Academy. What really raised eyebrows was his visible collaboration with Toni Nadal — the uncle and former long-time coach of tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
Given the timing and context, rumors swirled quickly. Could Zverev be looking to shake up his team? Was Toni Nadal considering a return to full-time coaching? And most provocatively, was a new elite partnership about to form?
However, those hopes were short-lived. According to multiple reports, Zverev’s interest in bringing Toni Nadal into his camp on a full-time basis has ultimately been shut down. Despite their time together on the practice courts in Mallorca, Toni has reportedly declined the offer to become Zverev’s permanent coach. This development has dealt a blow to Zverev’s post-Wimbledon recovery plan and left questions hanging over the direction of his team as the hard-court season approaches.
Toni Nadal’s decision isn’t entirely surprising to those who have followed his coaching philosophy and recent career moves. After stepping away from full-time coaching duties with his nephew Rafael in 2017, Toni took a more advisory role at the Rafa Nadal Academy and, later, briefly coached Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. His return to coaching on the ATP Tour was always going to be on his own terms — and likely only for the right player and situation.
While Zverev undoubtedly possesses the talent and credentials — including an Olympic gold medal and multiple Grand Slam semifinal appearances — it appears that Toni Nadal wasn’t ready to commit. Whether it was the demands of the tour, a lack of long-term compatibility, or a desire to remain focused on development at the academy, the Mallorcan has decided to stay put.
For Zverev, the setback comes at a crucial moment in his career. The German has been chasing Grand Slam success for years, and despite being a consistent presence in the world’s top five, that elusive first major title continues to evade him. After a solid clay season in 2025, expectations were high for a deep run at Wimbledon, but his shocking first-round loss triggered renewed concern over his mental fortitude and strategic direction — both areas Toni Nadal is renowned for enhancing.
The news that Toni won’t be joining Team Zverev full-time means the search for the ideal coach continues. Zverev has had a somewhat inconsistent coaching history, at times working with his father, Alexander Sr., and occasionally bringing in other advisors on a short-term basis. It remains unclear whether he will pursue another high-profile coaching hire or instead double down with his existing support system.
As the US Open looms on the horizon, one thing is certain: Zverev is at a crossroads. Whether this setback fuels his determination or further clouds his confidence remains to be seen. One chapter closes in Mallorca — now, the question is what comes next.