Boris Becker has shared his advice for Alexander Zverev ahead of the German’s Australian Open semi-final clash against Novak Djokovic: don’t fall for Djokovic’s mind games, take control of the match, and try to prolong the encounter.
Zverev faces a daunting challenge as he prepares to meet Djokovic for the 13th time. The Serbian holds an 8-4 advantage in their head-to-head record, including five victories on outdoor hard courts. Making matters tougher, Djokovic has found renewed form, silencing whispers of potential retirement with a dominant display in Melbourne.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion showcased his class in the quarter-finals, defeating Carlos Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in a vintage performance. Djokovic’s record at the Australian Open is nothing short of extraordinary, with a perfect 10-0 in both semi-finals and finals at Rod Laver Arena.
Recent speculation around Djokovic allegedly exaggerating injuries to gain a psychological edge has added intrigue to his matches. Against Alcaraz, he appeared to struggle at times, but John McEnroe cautioned players not to be misled, as Djokovic still came out on top.
For Zverev, overcoming the formidable Serbian will require not only physical endurance but also mental resilience to counter one of the sport’s greatest competitors.
Becker urged Zverev to stick to his own strengths “whatever his opponents”.
“Novak has been through it all,” the six-time Grand Slam winner told Eurosport.
“No one has played more Grand Slam matches, no one has won more Grand Slams. He really has experienced everything you can experience on the tennis court.
“Sascha has to stick to his game and show his strengths – his serve, his baseline strokes and his fitness. He mustn’t let himself be put off his game, whatever his opponent does.”
Zverev is striving to secure his first-ever final at the season-opening Grand Slam, and tennis legend Boris Becker believes that, beyond a bit of luck, a solid game plan will be essential for him to overcome the former world No. 1.
“It takes a lot of courage to go where he’s never been before – to the final of the Australian Open,” he said.
“Then, of course, a bit of luck, hitting the line or getting a good decision from the umpire. That’s also part of it. And decisiveness, being ready for the big day.
“If the match goes on for a long time, Djokovic is no longer quite as strong as he was two or three years ago. Sascha Zverev is known for his physical strength – he’s sometimes called the marathon man because he’s had to go over five sets so often. The question is how the first sets will end.
“Sascha is playing a bit more offensively this year, closer to the baseline. That starts with his serve, but also has to include the return.
“It’s important for the match against Djokovic that he sets the pace and takes the initiative. Because if Djokovic lets you run, then you have no chance.”
