Overview

• Alexander Zverev's clay-court season has been inconsistent, with a recent illness contributing to his early exit in Hamburg against Alexandre Müller.
• Boris Becker criticized Zverev's decision to compete in Hamburg despite severe illness, suggesting it revealed a lack of strategic planning.
• Becker and Rafael Nadal both highlighted Zverev's mental barriers as a key obstacle to achieving his first Grand Slam title, despite his high skill level.
• The French Open draw pits Zverev against 19-year-old Learner Tien, who previously defeated him this year and has shown strong performances in major tournaments.
• Zverev, recovering from illness, acknowledges the need to manage his energy and hopes to regain form as he seeks to break his Grand Slam title drought.