Boris Becker defends Alexander Zverev amid ATP ranking debate

Boris Becker has defended Alexander Zverev against critics who claim the German player's ascent to the ATP number one ranking is merely a result of absences from rivals Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Speaking on Andrea Petkovic’s podcast, Becker dismissed these criticisms as ‘total nonsense,’ arguing that Zverev cannot control the injuries or eliminations of other players.

Becker highlighted Zverev’s recent achievements, including winning two Grand Slam titles and reaching three consecutive finals, as evidence of his merit. Zverev himself acknowledged that Sinner’s absence played a role in his upcoming top ranking, stating, ‘I would like Sinner to be here to compete.’ Zverev expressed a desire to face the world's best players, noting that while Sinner has defeated him many times this year, he values competing against the highest level of talent.