The Toll of Top-Tier Tennis: Zverev Opens Up about Burnout

Alexander Zverev, the defending champion at the Rome Masters 1000, which commences this Wednesday, has publicly addressed the mental and physical strain he’s been experiencing. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the tournament, Zverev admitted to feeling a little in Burn out following his defeat to Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open final earlier this year.

Tennis is a difficult sport, we played a lot, we travel a lot, but we don’t give rest to our bodies, our minds. I needed it.

Alexander Zverev

Burnout, often described as Occupational Burn out or professional wear or worker syndrome, is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress.This condition is increasingly recognized as a significant issue in high-pressure environments, including professional sports.

post-Australian Open Struggles and the Road to Recovery

Following his three-set loss (6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3) to Sinner in Melbourne, Zverev participated in clay-court tournaments in Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Acapulco, achieving quarterfinal appearances as his best results. Though, his performance dipped further with early exits at Indian Wells, Miami, and Monte Carlo.

The demanding schedule of professional tennis, involving constant travel and intense competition, can take a heavy toll on athletes. Studies have shown a correlation between demanding travel schedules and increased stress levels in athletes, potentially leading to burnout. For exmaple, a 2023 study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that athletes who frequently crossed multiple time zones experienced higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone.

A victory at the ATP 250 tournament in Munich provided a much-needed boost, but Zverev’s struggles resurfaced at the Madrid Masters 1000, where he was defeated in the round of 16 by Francisco cerúndolo.

Looking Ahead: Rome Masters and a Positive Outlook

Despite the recent setbacks, Zverev remains optimistic about his prospects. I am on the right track. I won a tournament two weeks ago,I don’t have to forget it. You have to keep positive things in my head, he stated.

He emphasized the importance of peaking at major tournaments, expressing confidence in his ability to elevate his game when it matters most. I am not happy with my results, but I think the best players raise their level in the big tournaments, in the most important moments. I’m going to meet again with my tennis in the best tournaments, Zverev added.

with 24 ATP titles to his name, Zverev has a proven track record of success. As he prepares for the Rome Masters, he aims to overcome the challenges of burnout and rediscover his top form on the court.