Zverev Eliminated in First Round, Says He Felt “Very Alone” and May Seek Therapy

JAKARTA, July 2, 2025  – In one of the most unexpected early exits at Wimbledon 2025, Alexander Zverev, the tournament’s No. 3 seed, was stunned in the first round by Arthur Rinderknech, a Frenchman ranked No. 72 in the world. But beyond the result, it was Zverev’s raw and emotional post-match confession that left a deeper impact.

The match itself was a marathon—a five-set battle that stretched over four hours and 40 minutes, halted midway by the All England Club’s 11 p.m. curfew, and completed the following day. The final score: 7-6(3), 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-4 in favor of Rinderknech, who held his nerve in the closing stages to deliver the upset of the tournament so far.

Yet, it was what Zverev revealed afterward that drew the most attention. In a candid press conference, the 27-year-old German admitted he had been battling internal struggles, saying he felt “very alone out there” and was considering seeking therapy.

“I felt very alone out there. It’s not just about tennis anymore. It’s about things I’m carrying off the court, and I think I might need help dealing with it,” said Zverev, his voice subdued.

Long regarded as one of the sport’s most resilient and consistent performers, Zverev entered the tournament as a favorite to make a deep run. His early departure came as a shock, but it also shed light on the immense psychological burden elite athletes often carry in silence.

“I’m not ashamed to say I might need therapy. I want to feel like myself on the court again,” he added, signaling a desire to prioritize his mental health.

The loss ends Zverev’s Wimbledon campaign far earlier than expected, but his honesty has struck a chord with fans and fellow athletes. In recent years, more players—including Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios—have opened up about the pressures of life on tour, helping to destigmatize conversations around mental health in sport.

For Rinderknech, the victory marks a career-defining moment. For Zverev, it may mark the beginning of a more personal journey—one that could ultimately matter more than any Grand Slam title.