Boris Becker explains why Alexander Zverev is now primed for the top

ATP Tour
Alexander Zverev celebrates at US Open

Ivan Lendl can be a key difference-maker for Alexander Zverev as he attempts to break into the elite ranks on the ATP Tour, says Boris Becker.

Zverev won his biggest title in his career so far last week, beating both Roger Fererer and Novak Djokovic to claim the ATP Finals crown.

That has prompted much debate about whether or not the German is ready to finally make a breakthrough at the top of the rankings and end his Grand Slam struggles, and compatriot Becker says he now has a critical edge.

“So I’m happy he now has Ivan Lendl as a coach because Ivan, who won eight Grand Slam titles, can tell him the same stories I can tell him and brings an understanding of the game to his team,” Becker said

“We have a lot of coaches, and no disrespect to them, but in order to win Grand Slam matches and become number one in the world it is easier to talk to people who have been there and about their own experiences.

“Often it is a small margin and when you have someone on the sideline who has been there it has a big effect.

“It is very brave for Sascha to ask someone like Lendl to join his coaching team.

“It shows you Sascha’s motivation and his goals for the future.

“He wants to win and be the best so he is surrounding himself with the best.”

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