Alexander Zverev 'annoyed' by reaction to him becoming world number one

BBC • November 4, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

Alexander Zverev expressed frustration over the criticism he has faced since becoming the ATP world number one, feeling he is unfairly questioned about his ranking despite his achievements.
Zverev won his first two Grand Slam titles in 2026 but has struggled against top-10 players, holding a 3-9 record, while benefiting from injuries to rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
He lost his opening match at the Paris Masters to Lorenzo Musetti, marking a disappointing performance shortly after receiving the world number one trophy.
Zverev's rise has reignited past allegations of physical abuse from former partners, which he denies and calls baseless.
Despite setbacks, Zverev insists he deserves his top ranking and finds it frustrating that he alone must justify his position as world number one.