Alexander Zverev‘s massive win streak on the red dirt has given new dreams to his nation. After winning the Italian Open title, the ATP star has continued to extend his run, securing a position in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. And compatriot Boris Becker recently dropped a shocking verdict that stood to be a hurdle in the development process.
Novak Djokovic‘s former coach expressed concerns about the future of German tennis. Becker, who served as Head of Men’s Tennis at the German Tennis Federation (DTB) from 2017 to 2020, expressed eagerness to assist in improving the sport in Germany. However, he had to shed light on the fact that he feels neglected by the current leadership.
“I am worried,” said Becker, in a recent interview with Eurosport. He pressed on the need for a strong development program in the junior sector to lay the foundation for a successful future. Becker has made up his mind to contribute to the new competitive sports concept targeted to bring German tennis back on track. However, he expressed disappointment over the fact that the DTB President Dietloff von Arnim is dodging a conversation.
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Casper Ruud: Looking to reach his 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 consecutive Roland-Garros final
Alexander Zverev: Looking to reach the final at the 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐡 time of askingRuud v Zverev in the semi-final for a second year running 🍿💥#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/R5u5VqgoT4
— Eurosport (@eurosport) June 5, 2024
“The new DTB President Dietloff von Arnim wanted to talk to me last summer – but I’m still waiting for this conversation today,” Becker revealed. He also assured that he was solely ready to take charge but demanded a prior conversation to begin. “I would do it voluntarily. But I would really like to have a conversation,” he added.
Concluding a negative derivation, Becker feels his willingness to help is not being acknowledged by the DTB. “At the moment, I have the feeling that my support is not so wanted,” he stated, directing clear words towards the association.
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Boris Becker seems to be quite motivated to improve the situation of tennis in Germany. While he laid the need for conversation known to the world, the ball now seems to be in the DTB’s court to take the next step.
Alexander Zverev takes Boris Becker’s legacy forward in Rome
When it comes to counting the names of top tennis entities originating from Germany, Boris Becker’s name is at the top of the line. Along with securing a total of 6 grand slam titles in his own career, the legend also mentored some of the highest-ranked players in the world including Novak Djokovic and Holger Rune. However, besides these, the retired player also held a massive record of being the only German who made it to 11 ATP Masters finals in his career.
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Alexander Zverev recently stunned the top competitors in Rome, finally carrying the trophy home. However, along with the addition of another title in his name, the ATP star also came parallel to Becker’s record as the showdown in Rome marked the 11th time he made it to a masters final.
Both Becker and Zverev are currently two of the most influential figures of tennis in Germany. As the renowned coach carries a desire to lead the initiative for his country, it still remains to be seen if the authorities come forward to back him.